
Introduction
Dana Perino has written this book to assist people. She wished to teach people some things that she learned in her life. Moreover, she even asked her friends to contribute what they learned. These friends comprise people from various professions. From example, some are from television. Others, belong to politics. Some belong to music and business. Together, they offer valuable advice from different walk of life.
Why Did She Write This Book?
Dana has talked to a lot of young people. Time and again, they will all ask the same thing:
“What should I do with my life?”
On one hand, some are just entering college. On the other hand, some are seeking their first job. Meanwhile, some are switching careers. Clearly, they all need assistance. They need to know what they should do next.
Dana understood something significant.
Most of all, people wish they had been taught more when they were younger.
That is why she authored this book. She wants to provide advice in advance. So that, readers don’t get perplexed.
What’s In the Book?
This book is full of real stories.
In addition, it has useful tips.
- Moreover, it contains practical advice.
- It contains easy tips that can be followed.
- Each chapter teaches a new lesson.
- Some are related to selecting an occupation.
- Some discuss how to grow professionally.
- Additionally, others discuss love, family, and personal decisions.
Dana explains that this book is not about job only.
Instead, It is about life too.
Because they both are related.
Dana Listens and Learns
- Dana listened to countless stories throughout her life.
- She worked in the White House.
- She works on television now.
- Over the years, she met thousands of people.
- She listened. She asked questions.
As a result, she learned many life lessons.
In this book, she tells us what she learned
Not just from her life—but also from others too.
“You don’t have to learn everything the hard way.”
In fact, you can read this book and learn from other people’s mistakes.
This way, you don’t have to suffer to be wise.
Who Will Like This Book?
Basically, Everyone will like this book.
Especially, It’s perfect for:
- Students
- Young professionals
- People beginning a new
- Parents who want to see their children grow
- Anyone seeking job
- You can read one chapter at a time.
Moreover, you can read one chapter at a time.
You don’t have to read sequentially.
Because, each section is independent.
- A Nice and Supportive Voice
- Dana writes in a supportive manner.
- She is nice but also truthful.
- At the same time, She is honest.
- She offers support.
- In Addition, she offers hope.
She wishes to say:
“You are not alone.”
“Others have been there before you.”
“You will be all right.”
Overall, Dana wrote this book to assist people in work and life.
She offers counsel she received and hoped she had received.
Altogether, the book tells us personal experiences and others’ lessons.
It’s a straightforward read, full of wisdom, and beneficial to all ages.
Finding the Right Path
Deciding on a career can be a little bit difficult. Still, it is necessary step. Perino stresses the need to find the right path and take that first step. To help with this, she provides advice on how to get into a company, make a positive impression, and be noticed in your career. Clearly, these tips are very helpful for new graduates and anyone beginning a new career.
Growing in Your Job
Finding a job is wonderful. keeping it, though, is not sufficient. You need to grow. You need to get better. Most importantly, you need to demonstrate that you are prepared for more. Dana Perino provides actual advice on how you can accomplish that.

Therefore, Dana offers real advice on how to improve.
1. Learn the Basics First
As you begin working, your first aim is to learn.
Even small responsibilities count.
Therefore, be excellent at the little things—such as responding to emails, showing up on time, or taking notes.
Dana has to say:
“People will trust you more when they see that you care about the little things.”
In the long run, small wins establish your reputation.
So do not overlook them.
2. Be Heard (But Know When)
Having ideas is great.
Still, sometimes being quiet is nicer.
Dana advises: observe and learn first. Then speak.
Ask questions such as:
“Can I help with this project?”
“Would you mind trying this?”
“Is there anything I can remove from your plate?”
By doing so, you show care.
They also demonstrate that you wish to grow.
3. Learn From Others
You don’t need to do it all on your own.
- Instead, observe what intelligent people do.
- Study their nature.
- Get advice from them.
For instance:
“How did you learn to do that?”
“What would you do in my place?”
“Can you tell me how you improved?”
Usually, people enjoy helping.
Therefore, learning from them saves you time.
4. Continuously Learn New Skills
- Don’t stop learning once you have the job.
- Keep reading.
- Take short courses.
- Try new tasks.
Dana puts forward a very important idea:
“Be the person who says yes to learning, even when it’s not easy.”
She tells about people who volunteered to do extra work.
- As a result, they learned more.
- Eventually, they got promotions.
- They became distinctive.
5. Do More Than You’re Expected To
At times you will be told:
“That’s not your job.”
But Dana says:
“If you want to grow, don’t think like that.”
Do the task in front of you.
Then, do a bit more.
Seek ways to make things easier for your team.
Solve small issues without being told.
Soon, managers pick up on this.
They recall who made it easier.
6. Arrive On Time, Every Time
- Time is valuable.
- In contrast, late arrival says you don’t care.
- Early arrival says respect.
Dana reminds us:
Your time is valuable—but so is everyone else’s.
Therefore, arrive early. Prepare. Focus.
It might sound easy. But it creates trust.
7. Monitor Your Progress
Dana suggests putting things into writing.
Carry around a tiny notebook or a cell phone list:
- Projects you assisted with
- Skills you acquired
- Ideas you contributed
- Compliments you received
Then, when it comes time to ask for a raise or review, you’ll have evidence.
You can say, “Here’s how I developed this year.”
8. Remain Calm Under Pressure
Every occupation becomes hectic.
However, your response is more important than the stress.
Dana states:
“Stay calm. Don’t take things personally. Solve problems.”
Those who remain calm tend to lead.
So breathe. Think. Then act.
This makes you a valuable employee.
9. Build Good Relationships
- You can’t grow by yourself.
- Treat your coworkers with kindness.
- Don’t gossip. Don’t compete aggressively.
- Ask people about how their life is going.
- Say thank you frequently.
- Celebrate their successes as well.
Above all, people will remember how you treat others.
Therefore, be someone who cheers others.
10. Establish Goals and Seek Feedback
If you wish to develop, establish clear-cut goals.
Ask your supervisor:
“What do you think I can do better?”
“What should I prioritize for this month?”
“How can I contribute more to the team?”
Although, feedback might be tough. But it makes you develop faster.
Read More: Don’t let go of what stays in your heart
Making Career Transitions
Career or job change can be scary. Still, it’s possible. Perino discusses people who have made changes successfully by taking a chance on themselves. She provides full guidance on how to move through change, take risks, and pursue new possibilities with confidence.
Balancing Life and Work
Work-life balance is a very common concern. Perino acknowledges that there are times when work demands more of your time, especially in your career. She suggests that working hard in your twenties can lead to better balance later on. Even so,the book also provides tips on avoiding burnout and maintaining relationships outside of work.
Learning from Others
The book has contributions by different individuals. For example, Bret Baier, Dierks Bentley, and others. They present their stories and the things they would have liked to be advised on. Altogether, their stories provide a range of insights and down-to-earth lessons for the reader
Personal Stories
Perino also offers personal experiences, such as how she met her husband, Peter McMahon, and the advice which motivated her to take the leap of faith in love despite doubts. These give a human face and demonstrate how lessons from life extend beyond the office.
Conclusion
I Wish Someone Had Told Me is a must-have guide for everyone who wants to create a successful career and a happy life. In simple language, with engaging personal experience and practical tips, Dana Perino shares wisdom that readers can use at any point in their journey.
Here is the link to the book if you wanna read it: I Wish Someone Had Told Me – A Book By Dana Perino
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