You Might Be An “NBA Rookie” And Don’t Even Know It

I’ve been helping run the VeeFriends Instagram for a few months now. It’s an important brand and IP in the world of GaryVee, so it’s a huge opportunity for me.

Going into the role, I felt like I was the new kid on the block ready to single-handedly take things to the next level. Within a few weeks, I realized I wasn’t going to be able to do it using only what I knew going into the role. I needed to develop as a storyteller and a content strategist if I was going to stick around for the long haul.

Here’s an analogy that helped me reframe how I approach my work.

When I started working for GaryVee nearly two years ago, I was a “good college basketball player.” I had the skill to be a leading scorer on a team at a collegiate level. I may have even been All-Team in my college division.

When I started at VeeFriends four months ago, the stakes and expectations were higher. I became a “rookie in the NBA.” Now, my peers have equal ability as me, plus they work hard. I’m in the arena with the best of the best, competing with talented people in and out of the organization.

It’s now my responsibility to work on my craft, put up shots, ask questions, and now and then, take the ball and make a play.

That one mindset shift helps me as I navigate content creation every day.

You may not have recently entered a new role, but you can still use this analogy in any professional setting. Perhaps you know you’re in a “league” that isn’t fully testing your ability, and you’re ready to take a leap of faith and switch to a higher-level role or company. Or maybe you’re comfortable with where you’re at and you want to continue being All-Team at a collegiate level to live a lifestyle you’re familiar with. There is no right answer for everyone, but deep down you know the right answer for you.

Personally, I’m looking to expand my opportunities and life experiences by doing great work, and then accept whatever comes into my life.

See you next week :)