Helping another achieve success results in significant benefits in a number of directions. The receiver reaches a far greater potential than they could have on their own.
Most people only think of how they can be successful as individuals in what is shaping up to be an ultra-competitive world. They are quick to make exclusive plans; something which is not sustainable in the long run.
The creative industry is characterized by strong egos that are accommodated in extremely ambitious and uncompromising bodies. People here would do anything for freedom and power to pursue their creative work without having to give credit to others or, worse, watching someone else taking the credit.
Spending time in both sides of the jungle has taught me that this mindset doesn’t work as well as when there is someone you are working under or, if lucky, with.
Of course it is frustrating to have your work, on which you’ve put time and effort, is questioned or dismissed out of hand by the people in authority. The feeling of not being important is one that may not sit in well with most once it comes in.
But you should keep in mind that the true path to success is in helping others become successful. The fruits you reap may be, for starters, helping the receiver to reach a far greater potential than they could have on their own. If this isn’t helpful to your interest; you can count on them fondly remembering you and often publicly (and privately) thanking you for your contribution. Most importantly; the job will prepare you for the next one, maybe even your own. By then you would have had enough experience to do a better, and more rewarding, job.
So; do not feel inferior or discouraged because you are working for someone else’s success. Reposition your mindset to appreciate the job you have now and leverage it for a better one coming up next.
Contributor
Edward Asimba is a Creative Consultant at Asimba Creative Consultancy focusing on Brand Creation, Strategy and Positioning. Connect with him on LinkedIn at Edward Asimba, follow him on Twitter @EdwardAsimba and also check out his work at behance.net/asimba.