At some point, everyone was a beginner. Even the best in their field today started out not knowing everything. Take the story of Michael Jordan, one of the greatest athletes of all time. Early in his high school career, he was cut from the varsity basketball team. It wasn’t because he wasn’t passionate—it was simply because he wasn’t ready. But that setback didn’t define him. Instead, he used it as fuel, practicing relentlessly, honing his skills, and developing himself into the greatest version of who he could be. By the time he reached the NBA, his contributions spoke volumes, becoming the backbone of the Chicago Bulls’ success.
Much like Jordan, when you find yourself new in any field, it’s okay. It’s only natural. But to remain a novice would be a disservice to yourself, your goals, and your organization. The key is to quietly develop yourself, investing in your skills so that one day your impact will be undeniable. You won’t need to announce your progress; your results will make the noise for you.
5 Ways to Upscale Swiftly in Business or Career
Embrace Continuous Learning Whether you’re in business or a career path, staying stagnant is the quickest route to becoming obsolete. Set aside time every day to learn something new about your industry. Attend seminars, take online courses, or read books. Michael Jordan didn’t just rely on his raw talent—he studied the game inside out. Upscaling means continuously sharpening your skills and expanding your knowledge base.
Seek Mentorship No one gets to the top alone. Finding a mentor—someone who’s been where you’re trying to go—can fast-track your growth. They can guide you, show you the pitfalls to avoid, and help refine your approach. It’s like having a personal coach that helps you build confidence, make better decisions, and provide perspective that accelerates your journey.
Be Willing to Take on Challenges Growth doesn’t happen in comfort zones. When you’re starting out, it’s easy to shy away from tasks that seem too big or intimidating. But the best way to grow is by stepping up to challenges. Take on that difficult project, volunteer for leadership roles, or try something outside your current skill set. Just like Jordan practiced obsessively to perfect his shots, taking on challenges builds your expertise.
Network with Purpose Who you know can be just as important as what you know. Building a network of professionals in your field opens doors to new opportunities and collaborations. Attend industry events, engage with peers on social platforms, and build relationships that can provide support and insight. You might meet someone who has just the right connection or advice that helps you level up.
- Measure and Reflect on Your Progress Upscaling isn’t just about working hard; it’s also about working smart. Set clear goals and regularly evaluate your progress. What skills have you developed? Where are you still lacking? Michael Jordan wasn’t just playing the game—he was constantly analyzing his performance, watching tapes, and figuring out how to improve. Reflection is a key step in ensuring that your efforts are translating into real growth.
As you work on upscaling, remember that your results will be noticed. You don’t need to announce what you’re doing—the impact of your contributions will speak for itself, and those around you will feel the difference. From being a novice to becoming a pro, your dedication to self-development and growth will eventually shine through.