You learn the most about yourself in stressful times.
This is the second post in a series “10 til 2: When I Learned About Being a Professional.” Read the intro post here.
Many people do not thrive in a bar or nightclub environment by nature. Stimulation is everywhere: music, lights, drinks, attractive people, not so attractive people. As much as there is a push to “be unique,” most people still ping back to the social scene to be validated.
Are they cute? What’s their story? Bachelorette party, huh?
It takes a big person to walk into this sort of venue and not care, to be comfortable in your skin under mass scrutiny.
Nightlife venues are a place where people go to be seen, which means judgement is happening all the time (and yes, first impressions still matter). The professional world suffers from the same issues: you need to be seen doing a killer job to move up the ranks, and you are constantly being judged against your peers, your metrics, your capabilities.
Core confidence supersedes all of the other pressures being applied to you. The deep belief that you are who you say you are, that you can succeed, and that you can be influential is a powerful shield against the negativity, judgment, and otherwise toxic thoughts and behaviors going on around you.
Alcohol is a catalyst for many to feel good and take action in party situations. That is not a tool you have in job interview and most work situations to take action. If you can walk in and excel without any aids, then you are in a good spot.
Core confidence is the key to consistently doing something well. If you do something well, you will be rewarded.