In a recent LinkedIn post, entrepreneur and content creator Ankur Warikoo pointed out something many professionals quietly struggle with. Being smart does not always translate into career growth. In fact, he argued that intelligence can sometimes slow people down because it leads to overthinking, hesitation and playing safe. His post listed seven common mistakes he keeps seeing, along with simple ways to correct them.
Here is a closer look at those mistakes and what he suggests instead.
The responses to Warikoo’s post suggest that these mistakes are widely relatable. Many professionals admitted they had delayed action, overthought decisions or quit too soon. A common theme in the discussion was that execution matters more than planning. Some also pointed out that intelligence can create an illusion of control, making people focus on perfection instead of progress.
Overall, the takeaway from Warikoo’s post is simple but not easy to follow. Career growth depends less on being smart and more on taking action, staying consistent and learning in public. Avoiding these seven mistakes, even gradually, can help professionals move forward with more clarity.
Here is a closer look at those mistakes and what he suggests instead.
Waiting to feel ready before taking action
Warikoo writes, “Ready is not a feeling. It's a decision.” Many people delay starting because they think they need more confidence or preparation. But in reality, clarity often comes after taking the first step, not before it. Several users in the comments echoed this, saying the “right time” rarely arrives and starting messy is often better than waiting.Choosing titles over real learning
According to him, “The title fades. The skills stay.” Chasing impressive job titles may feel rewarding in the short term, but it is skill-building that sustains a career. Over time, what you can actually do matters more than what your designation says on paper.Taking feedback personally instead of using it
Another common mistake is misunderstanding feedback. Warikoo notes, “Treating feedback as judgement, not data” holds people back. Feedback is not always a personal attack. When treated as input, it becomes a tool to improve performance and decision-making.Building skills but ignoring relationships
He also points out that many professionals work in isolation. “Building skills in isolation instead of building relationships alongside them” can limit opportunities. Networking is not an extra task; it is part of career growth. Several commenters shared that their progress improved only after they started connecting with others.Giving up too early
Warikoo highlights impatience as a major issue. “Quitting too early because results don't show up fast enough” is something he sees often. Growth in most careers takes time, and results are not always immediate. Consistency and staying through slow phases make a difference.Playing safe to be liked
Another pattern he identified is the need for approval. “Playing it safe to be liked. Safe doesn't get you remembered.” Trying to avoid mistakes or criticism can keep people stuck. Taking calculated risks is often necessary to stand out.Comparing your journey with others
Finally, he addresses comparison. “Comparing their chapter 2 to someone else's chapter 10.” This mindset creates unnecessary pressure. Many professionals forget that others may be years ahead in experience, making such comparisons unfair and discouraging.The responses to Warikoo’s post suggest that these mistakes are widely relatable. Many professionals admitted they had delayed action, overthought decisions or quit too soon. A common theme in the discussion was that execution matters more than planning. Some also pointed out that intelligence can create an illusion of control, making people focus on perfection instead of progress.
Overall, the takeaway from Warikoo’s post is simple but not easy to follow. Career growth depends less on being smart and more on taking action, staying consistent and learning in public. Avoiding these seven mistakes, even gradually, can help professionals move forward with more clarity.
