Optimal Work Daily - Career, Productivity and Entrepreneurship 1951: 7 Pieces of Career Advice You Wished You Had Known Earlier by Karl Staib of Dig to Fly on Career Perspective
Feb 2, 2026
Career pivots, losing work, and how setbacks can spark new skills and direction. Practical focus habits like doing the most important tasks first and carving out undisturbed time. Building stronger relationships at work and learning beyond your comfort zone. Finding gratitude in struggle, taking real breaks, and reconnecting with why your work matters.
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Job Avoidance That Triggered Change
- Karl Staib describes a day he purposely avoided work and wasted eight hours, feeling checked out and angry.
- That pattern led to being laid off and later motivated him to start his own business where avoidance wasn't an option.
Avoidance Turned Physical
- Karl recalls avoiding new projects because he feared rejection and thus missed learning opportunities.
- The avoidance escalated stress until he experienced numbness in his arm and sought medical help.
Prioritize Growth-Focused Relationships
- Deepen relationships with coworkers who help you grow rather than focusing on those who annoy you.
- Reach out to people in your department you can learn from and invest in stronger connections.
