James Garners Words of Wisdom for Your Career

James Garners Words of Wisdom for Your Career What gal doesnt love The Notebook, the movie inspired by Nicholas Sparks romantic novel? I just happened to be watching it this past weekend when I saw the news that Dukeactor James Garnerpassed away at age 86. Garner, as writer for The New York Times, Bruce Webber, pens, was a genuine star but as an actor something of a paradox a lantern-jawed, brawny athlete whose physical appeal was both enhanced and undercut by a disarming wit.The award-winning actor was most noted for his roles in Maverick, The Rockford Files, and a slew of films. He also received a Purple Heart for his tafelgeschirr in the Korean War.So, to honor the legendary film star, I thought itd be a great idea to apply some of Garners on-and-off-air wisdom to our many career pursuits. Below are five different scenarios many people encounter in the many stages of their careersand how Garner s wisdom over the years applies to each one1. The moment when you decide to forgo the traditional route, take a leap of faith and walk in the direction of your dreamseven though they go down an unconventional path.James Garners word of wisdom I didnt want somebody in an office guiding my career. If I had a failure, I wanted it to be my failure. If I had a success, I wanted it to be my success.2. You scramble through a 30-minute pre-employment test that is full of mathematical equations you havent seen since high school. The questions are timed, of course, and it seems like question after question slips by before you have enough time to solve the problemyet, you still receive a callback for an interview.James Garners words of wisdom Science only goes so far and then comes God. (Duke, The Notebook)3. Youve negotiated a higher starting salary, but theres one last thingyour schedule. You ask your soon-to-be manager about telecommuting options, to which he or she responds that there are none.James Garners words of wisdom Well, you cant have everything. (Duke, The Notebook)4. Youve been at a new job for a few months now, but you still lack confidence. The workload is more than you anticipated and you question whether you can keep up. Are you talented enough? Is this really the right field for you? Will you ever reach your long-term career goals? If only your work/skills/abilities were like so-and-sos, then you would be confident.James Garners words of wisdom When I started working, I didnt have a clue what I was doing, in that I was just wandering around, hoping that I could succeed. Then after I got a little under my belt, it took me about 25 years to feel like I knew what I was doing.5. Your aha moment when, after youve worked and worked and accomplished your goals, yet you look back at it all and realize what true success in life means.James Garners words of wisdom I am no one special. Just a common man with common thoughts. Ive led a common life. There are no mo numents dedicated to me and my anthroponym will soon be forgotten, but in one respect Ive succeeded as gloriously as anyone who ever lived. Ive loved another with all my heart and soul and for me that has always been enough. (Duke, The Notebook)