The importance of the journey and knowing its value whilst you are on it.

The 10th September was RUOK Day. It was also a Day of Celebration with the #Women in Finance Awards but as I reflected on the day, I took stock of what the day embraced.

It started with a 3am online-dial in to the USA for 2 hrs followed by a walk with dogs, and then another 8am zoom call to the USA followed by what was almost a day filled talking with people.

Amongst that was an Interview for a new recruit for a position one of my clients is looking to fill (they asked me to sit in on the interview as I sit on their Advisory Committee), a few emails in between, and then wrapping up at 5pm. I finished peeling potatoes to place in the oven with lamb (I am pescetarian by the way) then back out at 5.13pm to walk the dogs before I dash back home to share the night celebrating Women in Finance and all of their achievements. 

As I reflected on the day with a glass of Moet and my amazing family dressed to the nines sitting around our dining table with friends on the shared zoom call watch the Awards live, I think about a discussion I had with the interviewee.

I had asked them to reflect on a previous job and identify what they enjoyed about it....  

Please take a moment on think about this.

They stated that they really enjoyed the "family" type environment and they felt valued but had not realised it's value and how much it meant to them until they had left.

So often in life we look for the next thing, the new thing, but don't stop to acknowledge where we are or what we have in the "now".

Knowing where you are along the journey in life (including work) is so very Important. Appreciating where you are, and the learning's we take away from each moment defines who we are as people and as leaders. 

Tonight I was to be interviewed as part of the celebrations but a glitch arose, and those that know me, would be asking if I was serious (because they know how methodical I am) but things happen and yes it did, but that's life. We move forward.

I look at the night with such joy and success, because my family, friends, colleagues all came together in celebration of something much bigger than me.

Momentum Media honestly did an amazing job, the team are a stand out. The breakout rooms where people sat at tables and shared a conversation, whilst watching the Awards and the amazing women be recognised was such a success.

My interview was my reflection on Diversity and Inclusion and so I thought I would share that with you ... 

"Having experienced first hand what it is like for people to assume you are a particular way, I am mindful of creating an environment and developing people and teams from a broad cross section. I look for potential not skill as skill can be taught. 

When you bring people together that think differently it enables each of us to learn and more importantly to understand the potential impact that we make when we are close minded.

 Diversity and Inclusion is NOT just about having different people involved. It is about asking for their input and valuing it.

Giving them a voice and ensuring that everyone in that room understands the value of having differences presented, heard and valued.

 I heard someone share an example of what this actually means. “its not just about asking someone to come to the dance with you, it's about asking them to step onto the dance floor with you”

So as I take stock of the day and moments throughout, I ask that you too consider doing the same. Thank you to the role models before me and to those that will follow. 

Remember our foot print is a choice, so what footprint will you choose to leave for others to follow?

Thank you for the privilege in being nominated for several Awards, including #Thought Leader of the Year, and in being a Finalist in the following Awards tonight #Mentor of the Year #Small Business Adviser of the Year #Excellence Awards

It is a privilege to share in people's successes. Congratulations to the women who shine in an industry that will continue to thrive and serve.

Please share your dreams and aspirations.... bring them to life by giving them a name and a voice.

Bridget Sakr, Leah Renwick, Yasmin Shah, Cathy McKee, Vivian Akary, Lee Boueri, Chad Chesworth, Nathan Dimarchos, Belinda Smith, Mary Ploughman