Do you find yourself taking your professional role as a Business Developer too seriously?  In the almost 30 years we've been helping students differentiate between and prioritize self-identity and role identity, it still surprises us how many students continue to place their professional role at the top of their priority list.  While your role identity as a Business Development professional generates revenue and provides financial security for you and your family, it's simply not the most important role you play.  It's just one of the many roles you play in your life ... True?  To break it down, your professional role affords you the daily opportunity to help other people, learn new and interesting things, receive financial reward, and if you choose, it offers you the opportunity to have fun!

In the greater scheme of things in life and in light of our mission, Business Development is really hysterical activity. Those of us who've been in the role for any length of time have lived through more human behavior stories than could be found in the most colorful New York Times bestseller. Quite honestly, Business Development is not activity that often engenders the most relevant social behavior. Look at your daily behaviors. Consider the questions you ask, the behavior you exhibit, your ability to engage other people, and your ability to work from their perspective. These are not the behaviors exhibited by the typical business professional.

To be even more successful in Business Development, lighten up, enjoy the journey, learn from your prospects, and learn from your experiences. As a professional Business Developer, don't take yourself too seriously nor take any situation too seriously, and always, always, always be thankful for your resulting opportunities.