It's 39 years exactly since I first started out in my career.
So I thought I'd send a message sharing my reflections on the journey so far.
Getting that first break is tough
I remember submitting about 40 applications for accounting jobs. I got one interview and got the job.
Learning: The right opportunity is out there.
A great boss in the early years makes a difference
If my first boss hadn't seen potential, encouraged me to go the night school 3 nights a week, I would have never got anywhere in accounting.
Learning: You need a boss who will set high standards and support you all the way.
You have to choose job moves wisely
I stayed in my first job for 5.5 years so that I mastered the basics of accounting. Each time I moved jobs, it was to grow and develop. The extra salary was nice but never the real motivator.
There will be plenty of setbacks along the way
The career path is never as smooth as you might want it to be. There will be plenty of setbacks.
Learning: The setbacks are part and parcel of the journey. It's how you respond that matters.
Always aim to treat people well
If you do they will help you in times of real challenge and go that extra mile.
Keep things in perspective
Most of what we do isn't life or death, even if we think it is.
What have you learned so far on your career journey?