“Be yourself,” Psaki wrote. “And remember that you have a much bigger microphone than you think you do.”
Psaki’s mother once shared some valuable advice with her that has stuck with her throughout her career. She said, “Keep your feet rooted on the ground and your spine straight, and nothing can waver you and nothing can blow you over.” Psaki found these words to be meaningful, as they emphasize the importance of staying grounded and steadfast in the face of challenges. She believes that in her role as a spokesperson for the leader of the free world, it is crucial to be grounded in oneself and one’s knowledge, so as not to be easily swayed by those who may try to undermine or overpower you.
Words of wisdom—and inanity
Psaki reflects on the various words of wisdom and advice she has received over the years, both helpful and unhelpful. She considers her mother’s advice to be sage, unlike some other pieces of advice she has encountered. One piece of career advice that she deems to be the worst is the common suggestion to “answer the question you want to answer” when appearing on television. Psaki believes this advice to be flawed, as it can lead to confusion among viewers who are the intended audience. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of addressing the actual question being asked in order to effectively communicate with the audience.
Conversely, the best advice Psaki has received has been to embrace skepticism. She recounts being told numerous times that certain goals or aspirations were not achievable, which only fueled her determination to prove otherwise. This advice has inspired her to push past perceived limitations and pursue her ambitions with resilience and perseverance.
One piece of advice that Psaki frequently shares with others is the importance of seeking feedback. She acknowledges that early in her career, she was hesitant to seek feedback out of fear of being perceived as inadequate. However, she has since realized that feedback is a valuable tool for growth and improvement. By receiving constructive feedback, individuals can enhance their skills and performance in their respective roles.
In conclusion, Psaki’s career journey has been shaped by a combination of valuable advice and personal experiences. From her mother’s words of wisdom to the lessons learned through skepticism and feedback, Psaki has cultivated a resilient and grounded approach to her work as a spokesperson. By staying true to herself, embracing challenges, and seeking continuous improvement, Psaki continues to navigate the high-pressure world of politics with grace and determination.