eLooking into the new year: A brief review of last year´s challenges, actions, and lessons learned
For some of us, last year might have been an exciting one. For others, it came with too many tough challenges. In my first article for this year, I am reflecting briefly on two major professional challenges from last year, my approach toward tackling them, and the lessons I learned along the way.
1. Navigating through uncertainty and unpredictability
“The only constant in life is change”- Heraclitus
Last year, we saw many businesses and organizations pivoting or having to make difficult decisions in response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the War in Ukraine. To navigate the uncertainty and unpredictability that came along, it was essential for me to be flexible and open myself to new opportunities. Rather than getting bogged down in stress and worry, I focused on what I could control and looked for ways to improve my value. Whether through mentorship or professional development opportunities, I found it helpful to tap into training resources and support from my network.
Such opportunities included spending three days in Lisbon, Portugal with 650+ Employer Branding Leaders and Experts from some of the world’s leading organizations at the World Employer Branding Day 2022, and joining the Employer Branding & Diversity Conference which took place at the Felleshus of the Nordic Embassies in Berlin, Germany. These events featured workshops and sessions with influential senior speakers from leading organizations. They were not only chances to learn, get inspired, and connect with some of the world’s top brands and their leaders, but afforded me the opportunity to learn how to network within my immediate professional community.
2. Self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance
If you don’t take care of yourself, who will? — Anonymous
You might have heard a dozen times, about how important it is to have a healthy work-life balance. However, working from home or remotely does sometimes blur the lines between personal and professional life. While I must admit that I am still looking for a good balance, I did make significant progress last year. I found it essential to set boundaries and create time for rest.
“I learned the value of self-care and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.”
By being proactive in setting boundaries, I have become better at managing my time, improving the quality of my output, and prioritizing tasks more effectively while juggling multiple projects and responsibilities.
Looking ahead into the new year:
The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read or write; they will be those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn. ~ Alvin Toffler
Although last year was full of unexpected twists and turns, it was also a memorable and rewarding one for me — professionally. And looking ahead, I can only be grateful for the experiences and opportunities that came along with it. As we head into this new year, I am convinced that with a flexible and growth mindset, it will be possible to overcome any challenges that might come along.
