Lessons learned in 2023

On a personal front

Finding purpose: Sometimes, there is no purpose to be found in the work that we do. Finding it may be for a privileged few, but for most of us, it is a means to put food on the table and take care of ourselves, our families, and our loved ones.

That is the purpose of work—to care for the ones we love the most.

Finding passion: Do not conflate passion with work; keep it for what it is. "Passion" is something that brings you joy, happiness, contentment, and a range of emotions that leave you feeling that this is what I was meant to do.

Pursue it, keep at it, and maybe one day it will become what you do every day!

It is okay to be lost: No, we don’t have to have all the answers. We are allowed to make mistakes and see the repercussions of bad decisions. It does not take away from who we are and what we are capable of. It is okay to not know where I am headed next or what am I supposed to do. Our path does not need to mimic others; we forge it on our own.

?It is all okay.

Cherish Experiences: The good, the bad, and the ugly ones shape us into who we are today. The good teaches us to win and find motivation to keep getting better. The bad teaches us what not to do and to strive for a better tomorrow, while the ugly teaches us to be kinder, empathetic, and resilient.

As I was taught this year, there is no such thing as bad decisions, just bad outcomes.

For companies and individuals who are in the position of power:

Accept Differences: Do not be arrogant or disrespectful and generally disdain people who do not operate like you, may not have seen the world like you or didn’t go to the right school. If you are only surrounded by people who speak your language, then you are lost. The true nature of diversity and inclusion is to learn from diverse backgrounds and open yourself to different views and the possibilities it holds.

Differences teach you what the world is like for others.

Creating impact and value: Walking the talk is a tough one and sadly not seen far too often. Treat your team with dignity and respect, a lesson not difficult to learn simply treat them like you would like to be treated. It is only with respect that you find people who are willing to follow you, take you as their leader and imbibe the passion you have for your dreams. That is when true value creation takes place.

Be kind and you will find many following your lead to greatness.

True empowerment: The titles, the fancy perks, and the salary seem minuscule when true empowerment does not exist. The constant micromanagement, interferences, and putting people down do not serve as an avenue for growth either for your company or for your team. Give your team the space to grow, trust them to deliver, and accept there will be mistakes. It is when you truly empower do you see growth and passion in your team.

Empowerment comes from enablement and encouragement

In 2023, I questioned the freedom in my country but was also reminded of how privileged we are to have a place to call our own and not suffer from the consequences of displacement and war. It taught us that the values of justice, truth, and equality were an eyewash limited to a few. It served as a stark reminder of how the world can sit and watch atrocities in silence, unable to act because power dynamics shape this world, not humanity.

For me, 2023 was a year of self-reflection, understanding where I am, and deciding what I want to do next. It was knowing what I want to pursue personally and professionally and leaving spaces that can’t be part of that journey. It was filled with a newfound gratitude for my loved ones - my family, and my friends - who remind me how lucky I am every day.

Grateful for everything that was given to me in 2023 and hopeful for what’s next in 2024!