How can you be more self-aware in Network Administration?

This analysis sounds like a working plan but needs a couple of refinements. What does the organization need? Now and tomorrow. How do you determine these needs? Always have a “Can Do” attitude.

Need to add to this step: assess your skillset to industry standards, not just company norm. Some companies move at the bleeding edge, some are cutting edge, some more conservative and there are still those out there who worship at the altar of the dinosours. Knowing where the industry is headed to, getting an understanding of current and new technologies, and keeping current with your own skillsets as well as skills that would make you more marketable, goes a long way help you be more aware of how strong you are as a technician.

One thing i have found helpful is staying updated on the latest technologies, security threats, and industry best practices. This will in turn assist you to Identify areas where you can expand your knowledge and skills.

Through Fostering a proactive mindset by anticipating potential network issues, regularly reviewing logs and performance metrics, and actively seeking opportunities for professional development to broaden professional skill set in network administration.

A great feedback source is your customers, especially after you complete a task or project for them. A post action review with the customer and team members involved in the action/project is a wonderful learning opportunity. The view from the other side of the fence (customer perspective) will help mold your future actions, expand how you plan and design, and will allow you to develop a more holistic approach.

We often get mired in daily minutiae that we forget to pat ourselves on the back. Keeping a record of our accomplishments, especially after a complex or difficult action or project not only track what we've done but also how far we've come in our knowledge and skillset. This falls under the documentation action of any project or action, but this time the documentation is more for ourselves. Also great if you ever needed to update your resume. Because, realistically how many of us will retire from our first job, or even our current job?

Related to step 3, an post project evaluation is a good opportunity to learn. We become stronger and more skilled by being willing to be wrong and to seek the right answers and correct guidance. Set our ego aside and look at setbacks as learning and growth opportunities.

Advocate for yourself. In the world where sometimes we are utilized to max capacity and more, where our companies expect us to put out the fires, plan for future and magically keep our skillsets current, advocate for yourself. Advocate for capacity and time to upskill, for time to explore, and most of all, advocate for work-life balance. Because in the end the company will have no compunction in filling your vacant position, but your loved ones, family, and friends will be most affected by the absence of you.

Actively seek opportunities for professional development, attend relevant workshops, webinars, and conferences, and engage in ongoing education. Embracing lifelong learning not only enhances your technical expertise but also contributes to your overall self-awareness.