Every four years we are given an additional day in February. During this “bonus” day, I often will take some time to reflect on what the last four years were and on this particular year, we can all admit that the last four years have seen a range of emotion. From concern, frustration, excitement, and everything in between.
Personally, I believe that reflection remains a vital part of looking back and adjusting to make changes for moving forward. It is hard to believe that four years ago, we were very much in office, in person, local and time zone dependent. Although some of the changes shared might be personal to me, I do believe taking a moment to reflect on where we have been, what we have learned, who we have met, and how we have grown will ensure that we are continuing to improve ourselves.
Some of the core items that reflection helps me with is:
- Reflection helps me learn from experiences and identify areas of improvement. By thinking critically about what I did well and what I could have done better, I could enhance my skills and knowledge.
- Reflection helps me set goals and plan. By evaluating my progress and achievements, I can identify my strengths and weaknesses and set realistic and meaningful objectives for my career development.
- Reflection helps me foster a growth mindset and embrace challenges.
- Reflection helps me communicate effectively and collaborate with others. By expressing my thoughts and feelings, I can articulate my needs and expectations and receive feedback. By listening to others’ perspectives, I can gain insights and empathy and build trust and rapport.
In the last four years, I have observed the following through recent reflection:
- Our working day starts earlier and ends later
- We do not respect time zones – lunch time is when you are able, not a set time
- Calendars are busier with meetings
- Covid was real and hospitalization was no joke (April 2021)
- Video does NOT replace in person
- Video can supplement in person
- Some people just will never turn on cameras
- People don’t print
- It is harder to disconnect
- Kids understand when an adult is working
- Kids appreciate the amount of meetings/webinars adults participate in
o Worry that they may start to believe that work is just those “3 years of distance learning”… - There is/are no more snow day(s)
- Staying connected to the local office requires effort
- Sitting in an office with the door closed does not promote collaboration
- Commuting to the office takes away from family time
- I can be more productive sitting at my desk at home
With the items above, it is our job to ensure that in 4 years we adjust and improve!
Embracing this responsibility means actively engaging with the ever-evolving landscape of our industry, anticipating changes, and adapting our strategies to remain agile and effective. As we look towards the future, we must set our sights on continuous improvement, leveraging the knowledge and experiences gained from the present to inform and enhance our approach over the next four years. This commitment to evolution and refinement will pave the way for sustained growth and success in the coming years.
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