As the year 2022 comes to a close, I reflect on all that I have learned throughout the past 12 months. This year hasn’t been the easiest, but despite the difficulties and unexpected turns, it has been a year of growth.
I would have a respectable sum of money if I had a dollar for each time someone inquired about how my year had been going. What is it about the year’s end that encourages introspection and judgment? Is it its finality and the fact that there are no do-overs, or is it the promise of the new year and the hopes we have for it? The urge to pause and reflect on all the events that comprised the year, its successes and losses, is a fundamental process for the majority of individuals. Personally, I have a couple of lessons worth sharing.
One of the most valuable lessons I have learned this year is the importance of adaptability. I changed roles mid-year and while I didn’t expect it to be a walk in the park, I didn’t expect it to be as challenging. Truth is, you may never be fully prepared for the next role, the next big deal, or your next move but if there’s any skill that will help you, it’s adaptability. Changing roles and their unique experiences taught me the value of being flexible and open to change. It also exposed me to the importance of staying up-to-date on new skills and technologies.
Tip: Don’t get too caught up in your way of getting things done. Trust me, there’s likely a better way to get it done.
Another lesson I have learned this year is the value of resilience. In my role, I get to hear a lot of no’s and no matter how many times I hear it, it still hurts, especially when I think I have done a good job and earned a pat on the back. Although hearing no hasn’t gotten easier, I have learned the importance of persevering through difficult times and finding ways to adapt and pivot. So what if I have to go over the same task over and over again? I build resilience with each no. This lesson has carried over into my personal life as well, helping me to be more resilient in the face of other challenges and setbacks.
Tip: Stick to it. Do it again and again. It gets easier every time you go again.
Here’s a truth we don’t talk about enough; you are going to need a lot of help. Another learning drawn from my experiences so far is cultivating the ability to ask for help. I needed help more often than I thought I would. Thankfully, I don’t work alone. One of the perks of working in a team is that you can get the support you need if you ask right. Asking for help the right way is a must-have skillset. First, give people time to work on your request. This may mean that you need to work faster on tasks so people can take out time to help you, but your work will be better for it. Also, it helps if you already have a relationship with the person you will ask for help from so take out time to build a relationship with the people you work with.
Tip: Ask for help but build a reputation for problem-solving.
In addition to these lessons, I have also learned the importance of strong communication and collaboration in the workplace. With many of us working remotely this year, it was crucial to stay connected and communicate effectively with my colleagues and team members. I have learned the value of using various communication tools and platforms, as well as the importance of actively listening and seeking feedback. A lot can get lost in between virtual meetings and misunderstanding can cost time and resources so taking a step back and making sure you have all the information you need to execute your task efficiently is key.
With all of these lessons, I am changing my approach for next year. I am going into the year with a few goals broken down into sections; my career, finances, and relationships. If you ask me what I am most excited about for next year, it will be the risks I intend to take. I am looking forward to a version of myself that is bold and unapologetic in pursuit of her goals. I anticipate challenges and I am ready to take them on!
Overall, the year 2022 has been a year of learning and growing for me both personally and professionally. As I move forward, I will take these lessons with me and continue to develop and adapt in order to achieve success in my career and life in general.