2023 reflections and learnings
The year 2023 was a rollercoaster ride — filled with achievements but equally riddled with unexpected challenges. Reflecting on it now, the recurring theme was responsibility. It was a year that demanded accountability, often even for situations that seemed beyond my control. Whether it was foreseeing issues or taking ownership of failures, it became a crash course in workplace responsibility — choosing between resistance or acceptance. This journey of accountability revealed that the path to growth isn’t just about personal triumphs but also about assuming responsibility, no matter how daunting it might seem. Embracing responsibility as a proactive force for growth led to an understanding that challenges aren’t just stumbling blocks; they’re also stepping stones toward personal and professional development.
“Know thy enemy” Sun Tzu
Understanding the people influencing decisions was a crucial lesson. In a professional landscape where priorities clash, it’s vital to grasp the ambitions and triggers of stakeholders. For instance, in a past job, I witnessed a scenario where the art department’s failure was seen as a prerequisite for improvements. This political game influenced both teams and projects, revealing the complexities of navigating office politics. Recognizing the dynamics of stakeholder influence unveiled the importance of strategic alliances and fostering relationships based on mutual goals. Collaborating with these stakeholders became less about personal preferences and more about fostering a shared vision that benefits all parties involved.
If everything is critical nothing is.
Navigating priorities in a corporate setting often feels like solving a puzzle. Amid a sea of critical tasks, the ability to pause, evaluate, and align with the right objectives and people is paramount. Consider a scenario where aligning with differing opinions was necessary to serve the end-user and elevate the product’s value proposition. It became evident that strategic alignment and prioritization are not just individual responsibilities but collective efforts that foster collaboration and yield more robust outcomes. The skill of prioritization isn’t just about managing tasks; it’s about maximizing resources and efforts to create a collective win for the team and the organization.
“No good deed goes unpunished” Oscar Wilde
Change isn’t easy — it ruffles feathers and sparks resistance. Imagine a scenario where pushing for change initially led to a performance slump or a temporary dip in quality. However, persevering through these challenges, trusting instincts, and celebrating the small victories ultimately led to significant strides forward. The experience underscored that embracing change isn’t just about overcoming obstacles; it’s about fostering a culture where resilience and adaptability are cherished. It’s recognizing that amidst resistance lie opportunities for growth and innovation, and success isn’t just about the destination but also the journey of transformation.
“We only see what we want to see, and hear what we want to hear.” Don Miguel Ruiz
Day-to-day routines can create tunnel vision. It’s vital to step back and assess the status quo periodically — a self-imposed ‘retro’ of sorts. For instance, imagine realizing that a repetitive task could be automated or discovering a process that doesn’t add value. Seeking fresh perspectives or alternative views can be invaluable when change becomes imperative in an ever-evolving world. The process of reevaluation isn’t merely about identifying inefficiencies; it’s about fostering a culture of continuous improvement. It’s understanding that the pursuit of excellence demands regular recalibration and adaptation to stay relevant and effective in a dynamic environment.
