Stop Doing the Bare Minimum and Calling It “Progress”

Let’s talk about a hard truth:

Getting things done is not the same as impact.

I know you have heard the saying: Get Stuff Done, and while that isn’t bad advice, too many students and early-career professionals confuse activity with achievement. You turn in what was asked, check the box, and think that’s enough.

But here’s the problem — doing the bare minimum doesn’t build trust, respect, or opportunity.

When you just “do your job,” you’re sending the message: 

👉 “I’m here to meet expectations, not exceed them.”

And to a manager or founder, that’s deflating. It tells them they can’t count on you to push beyond the obvious — to add value, to think critically, to care.

The most frustrating interns aren’t the ones who make mistakes; they’re the ones who coast.

When you only do what’s assigned:

• You disappear into the background.

• You miss the chance to learn what really matters.

• You become replaceable.

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Here’s what to do instead:

✅ When you’re given a task, ask yourself: “How can I make this better than expected?”

✅ If something feels easy, go one step further — add insight, test an alternative, look for what’s missing.

✅ Show curiosity. Learn the why behind what you’re doing.

✅ Track your impact — not your hours.

Because “done” isn’t a badge of honor. Value is. 

Every great opportunity goes to the person who treats even the smallest task like it’s mission-critical.

So stop counting the minutes. Start earning the reputation.