Careers are amazing things. It seems like only yesterday I was in my first job--everything was new and intimidating, everyone had more experience, and even still, I believed I knew it all. With years of experience to look back on now, I understand how much I would grow. Here are a few things I've discovered along the way:Be available. I've uncovered countless opportunities and formed incredible relationships simply by shaking a hand, answering an email, picking up the phone, or volunteering for a new project. If there is a simple way to set yourself apart from others, it's by discarding your fear of the unknown and offering to be a part of the solution. Particularly in times of confusion or difficulty, people appreciate someone who offers to tackle a problem together.Be understanding and patient. There are a lot of different types of people in the world having their own experiences, their own good days and bad days, knowing triumph and defeat, or struggling against something unknown to you. Entering into a project or a new relationship, recognizing that the other person is dealing with a full life outside of your personal needs creates a healthy perspective for long-term relationships and not just for today's meeting. Don't take every business conversation personally, and don't think everything must be successful in a single meeting. Strong relationships and trust are forged over time.Leading is supporting. Teams don't get quite as far with one person ordering others around or by marching ahead without looking back. Leaders create a vision, a clear set of goals, but then create the opportunities for others to be a part of the journey. Clearing paths, making connections, brainstorming solutions--these actions make the best leaders.These observations are the backbone of my approach to work-life today. They keep me positive on challenging days or projects, and they've rewarded me with great relationships and success.