The Mindset That Predicts If You'll Achieve Your Potential

Welcome to Gratitude Driven, a weekly newsletter where I share practical ideas and insights across personal growth, professional development, and the world of AI and data science.

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• The Mindset That Predicts If You'll Achieve Your P …

• 5 Signs of An Inexperienced, Self-Taught Machine L …

The Mindset That Predicts If You'll Achieve Your Potential

I was recently having a conversation with someone looking to change careers into ML, and I suggested that they not wait until they feel “ready” to start applying to jobs. My perspective is that in the off chance you get an interview, it’s a great opportunity to practice, even if you don’t get the job.

I said that the worst thing that could happen was that you’d spend time studying for a role that didn’t go anywhere, and you’d learn where your weak points are for next time.

This did not sit well with them. They responded that actually, the worst thing that could happen was that if it went poorly it could hurt your confidence moving forward.

I have been thinking about this quite a bit since then, and I think they accidentally perfectly described one of the key differences between those who thrive in challenging fields over the long run, and those who don’t achieve their full potential.

Think about it this way: If you had a child and they tried something above their current skill level and failed, you’d tell them that it’s great they pushed themselves, and ask what they learned for next time. You wouldn’t tell them, “Wow, that must have been really embarrassing — better not put yourself out there again.” That’s ridiculous.

We need to coach ourselves with that same kind of compassion and growth mindset.

So sure, you tried for a role you weren’t quite ready for, and you didn’t get the job. That’s ok! You tried! You pushed yourself and did your best, and you’re going to learn from your mistakes and come back stronger next time.

I have had this exact experience before. I interviewed for a Senior MLE position at a big company before I was ready. I knew that going in, but I still did my best in the preparation. I studied hard, did as well as I could, and failed in very predictable ways. I didn’t beat myself up about it, and instead just used it as data on what I needed to do better next time. Now, a few years later, I am in a Senior ML role. It just took time and focused effort.

This doesn’t just apply to interviewing, or career growth. It’s really true for life overall. If you are afraid of getting hurt when you fail, you’ll never start that business. You’ll never ask that person on a date. You’ll never try the dance class, travel, or push yourself outside of your comfort zone. And that is no way to live life fully.

Instead we need to embrace the potential for failure without fear. Failure is a good thing — it means you tried. That’s more than many people can claim. Failure teaches us, and helps us grow.

This growth mindset is 100% necessary to live up to your potential. If it’s something you struggle with now, stay curious, and understand that everything in life is a journey. So what if you fail right now, you’ll get there — but only if you put yourself out there and keep trying.

5 Signs of An Inexperienced, Self-Taught Machine Learning Engineer

Speaking of being a beginner, lol.

This week’s video is about the most frequent errors I see beginners make. I hope it’s helpful to catch some common issues before they trip you up!

Blog version is here. <3

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