Things that require zero talent

But set you up for success

Olabanji Stephen
2 min readSep 8, 2022

A friend once said to me, “it’s my first day at work (he’s on probation) and I wonder what else I should take with me”. I’m sure he was expecting me to ask if he got his coffee mug because I’m the coffee guy or a cable to connect his computer to the monitor or a black ring (i like that too), or a shoe with the swash to impress the ladies.

But I said (inspired by Chris Do’s IG post), here’s my take on the things that don’t necessarily look pretty but set you up for success and you are simply a decision away from having them:

  1. Integrity
  2. A strong work ethic
  3. Enthusiasm and a positive attitude
  4. The right body language
  5. Passion
  6. Going the extra mile and trying again
  7. Being prepared
  8. Curiosity, an open mind, and being a great listener (and learner)
  9. Empathy, kindness, and a desire to help
  10. Being on time
  11. Respect for people, their work, and contributions

Your skill will get you in for sure but that’s not all. If you want to reach an impossible height, take these with you, take them everywhere.

I wrote a book on showing up, creating meaning, and staying productive. And it has helped hundreds of people. Get it here at any amount you choose.

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Olabanji Stephen
Olabanji Stephen

Written by Olabanji Stephen

I see the world differently and attempt to interpret it in ways that inspire genius

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