Returning to my career after a period of time away to tend to “other life” obligations, I began, as many do, by reaching out to my network and applying for jobs online. Networking has always felt awkward when I sense I’m asking for more than I have to offer. And yet, I love to give; it lifts me. I suspect I’m not alone in that. Job searching, however, can make us feel exposed, as if we’re seeking more than we’re giving. Of course, offering ourselves has immense value. Still, the process can chip away at our sense of worth.
Not long ago, I had a video call that left me energized. The conversation flowed naturally, and the energy felt strong, at least from my side of the screen. As is often the case, I replayed it in my head for hours afterward. And, right on cue, those mental replays surged late at night, hijacking sleep.
One thought in particular stuck with me: lifelong learning. I’ve always embraced it, and I was excited to share this on the call. Maybe that explains why I never went especially deep in one area of my career. Instead, I dipped into many waters—sometimes just a foot, sometimes wading a little deeper—but always learning.
What I forgot to mention on the call, and what kept gnawing at me, is that not only is it learning that I enjoy, but also teaching. Not in the formal, academic sense—with all its structure and politics—but the simple, satisfying act of sharing knowledge to help others on their way. That might mean explaining a process, mentoring someone through a challenge, or helping a colleague find their footing in the culture.
Teaching is the other side of learning. And both give us something to offer—even when we feel uncertain about our value. Yes, employers can survive longer without filling a role than job seekers can without finding one. But that doesn’t diminish what we bring. So let your love of giving lead. It’s always there—and it always matters.