During my tenure at McKinsey, a new colleague got started at the Firm. And in the initial days, this person really struggled despite a stellar academic background.
The work in consulting is often ambiguous, and no matter how intelligent you are, it takes a while to get into the groove. In fact, sometimes, I could sense this person’s frustration and an unstated fear — “Did I join the right organization? Can I survive?”
This person went on to serve for more than a decade, and became a partner at the Firm.
I saw a younger colleague go through a struggle and conflict with the manager — and once, even break into tears. Happily, this colleague also became a partner later (the manager did not survive too long).
If you take up anything challenging, in the beginning, you will struggle. You might even feel that you are a misfit.
But these early struggles are no indication of your eventual success or failure.
If you are struggling in a new role or questioning your competence and self-worth — press pause and give yourself some time.
The smartest of people need time. Everybody needs time. So don’t rush to judge — yourself or others.
– Rajan