From a Bonafide Beginner to a Buzzing Bee

All we need is somebody to lean on...Even though the instrumentals follow, I cannot stop humming the song.

Finally! I am a year old at IBM with the four others I formerly interned with 2 years ago.

When you are starting your career, there is a lot that comes your way, right from anticipation to advice. You either soak it all in and squeeze it out when need be or have faith in yourself, thinking you'll get help along the way when you need it. I followed the latter.

A year went past and here I am, ready to share what I learnt when I was willing to unlearn:

1. If you think you can do it, own it:

You made it here because you have the potential. Own what it takes to be in your position. You've earned it. Be proud!

Having said that, vouch for your ideas. If you think you can make it possible, own it and prove true to your words.

2. If it doesn't feel right, it isn't:

You're afraid it hampers your productivity? You don't quite see why you should be doing it?

Call it out.

3. Prioritise yourself. Work can wait:

We tend to become obsessed with what we're assigned to do. Family time may take a hit. You might stop following a sleep schedule. You don't have a hobby anymore. The trip you had been planning for days has been put off.

Your employer shouldn't be the one focusing on your work-life balance. You are responsible for what you sign up for, professionally and personally. Prioritise!

4. Think big or sting it... Becoming the bee:

You either go big or go home. Make an impact. Take up that activity you've been putting on hold for a while. You're a bee. Remember that! Either you make honey (be an asset) or you sting (cause pain).

5. Emb(race)

Respect humanity. It's the best frame of mind to be in.

6. Mythbuster- You cannot be kidding if it's B2B:

Don't take yourself too seriously. Sometimes, you need to pause and catch your breath.

Always remember "All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy". Jack prefers to play at times. Be like Jack!

A B2B space is a great environment to be in because even business is spontaneous and unpredictable.

7. Mythbuster- It's not you, it's me:

If your brand uttered these words, it's time for a quick reminder to yourself.

You are the brand they bet on. Be the best version of your personal brand to let the company brand shine through.

8. Upskill, you've got to keep going:

Learnt it from Nemo and applied it at work.

"Just keep swimming. Just keep swimming...." You've got to do what you do best but have the ammunition handy at all times. Upskill and upgrade to become better over time.

9. Stop. Retrospect. Strategize.

A clear strategy adopted by my team at IBM. It does the job of laying the foundation to every step taken and planned for. Follow it.

10. What's the most important at work? Respect.

Your worth got you here. Your work got you buzzing. Respect that and expect the same in return. More than obligation, respect goes a long way.