Embracing Change: Rising Above Fear

September has always held a special place in my heart.

As a Virgo, born on September 1st, I find joy in the subtle changes this time of year brings as we near the end of August and the end of summer — the start of school, the crisp autumn air, and the unmistakable scent of new school supplies. These familiar experiences have always signified new beginnings and the promise of growth. Even now, as an adult, I still find myself overspending at Target on notebooks and pens, just like a teenager!

This year, September symbolizes a significant personal and professional transformation for me. After dedicating almost 25 years to the IT field, I am stepping into a new role in Human Resources. This decision, while exciting, is bittersweet because of how much I care for and genuinely enjoy being a part of this digital technology team. However, I am reminded of a powerful concept: we can choose to Face Everything And Rise. Fear is a natural response to change. It can paralyze us, keeping us within the confines of our comfort zones. But when we face our fears head-on, we allow ourselves the opportunity to rise, to grow, and to discover new strengths within us. This mindset is essential not only in our personal lives but also in our professional journeys.

My New Year’s resolution was to be more adventurous and to inject more fear into my life on purpose. This resolution pushed me to go zip lining in the Dominican Republic, white water rafting in Montana, and opt in on speaking engagements at conferences and local events. I firmly believe that when we are uncomfortable, we grow the most. This philosophy has guided me in making this significant career shift, embracing the discomfort that comes with it, and using it as a catalyst for personal and professional development. In my new role in HR, I aim to bring this philosophy to our team and organization. Embracing change, fostering a growth mindset, and encouraging each other to rise above our fears can lead to remarkable outcomes. By supporting one another through transitions, we can create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential. As we welcome this new season, I challenge each of you to reflect on your own fears and consider how facing them can lead to growth. Let’s commit to stepping out of our comfort zones together. Embrace the unknown with confidence and optimism, knowing that by doing so, we can achieve incredible things. Here’s to new beginnings, continuous growth, and the courage to rise.

I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Kelly Aronson , my fellow IT Extended Leaders, and the entire Digital IT Team. Your support and collaboration make Andersen Corporation a special place to work, and I am deeply grateful for the experiences and memories we’ve shared during my time in IT. I’m looking forward to continuing to partner with you in my new role!

Warm regards,

Erin