Self-Reflection: 10 Things I’ve Learnt in 2015
Time flies – another year is coming to an end. However, it is my favourite time of the year. It is the time I begin to assess the things I’ve done, think about the learning points I’ve gained, and reflect on how I can further improve for the coming year.
This year, I would like to share 10 things I’ve learnt in 2015, with hopes that perhaps some of these can be of useful learning to you.
- PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE
With my new role as a mother, this phrase has struck me real hard. Taking care of a baby is more difficult than managing adults at the work place. This has taught me to be more patient and understanding. I have learnt that not everyone works at the same speed as I do and that I should be patient and appreciate the diversity.
Practising being patient will not only benefit myself but others as well. Giving others time and space to think and respond instead of stressing them for an immediate answer or action will bring harmony in a team, and eventually success.
- REACT TO NEGATIVITY WITH POSITIVITY
I have learnt that when I stumble, I should not be discouraged. I’ve learnt to pick myself up and think about how I can do better. Many successful people bounced back after a fall. Einstein was one of them. And he created great things thereafter. Imagine if he didn’t choose to bounce back.
- IT’S THE VALUE OF WHAT YOU GIVE
I have learnt that reward for hard work is not quantified by the amount of time spent working on it but rather, the quality of what has been produced. These days, I’ve learnt to always remind myself to put in my best on every project I undertake.
- RAISE YOUR HAND WHEN YOU NEED HELP
Why struggle and feel flustered when you come across a problem? I have learnt to raise the red flag, and ask for help. It is not a sign of weakness or surrender. It is about how I manage my workload and my time.
- APPRECIATE THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE HELPED YOU ALONG THE WAY
It is sometimes harder to say ‘Thank You’ than to say ‘Sorry’. I’ve learnt to show my appreciation to others for what they have done. People will be more pleased to hear words of gratitude rather than words of apology. Here’s an insightful article to exemplify the simple phrase of ‘Thank You’.
- PICK YOUR BATTLES
I’ve learnt not to sweat the small stuff. Sometimes, harping on the small things will hinder one from seeing the big picture, or accomplishing important tasks. I’ve learnt to pick the right battles to fight and to not focus on the things that don’t matter. This has relieved me of unnecessary workload and stress.
- BALANCING WORK LIFE AND FAMILY LIFE
As the saying goes, “Work isn’t everything!” This is indeed true. While work is important, it is only a part of the larger equation of life. Quality time spent with the family is equally important. At the end of the day, I’ve learnt that my loved ones are the ones who will support me through life’s hardest knocks.
- TAKE BREAKS
Taking care of my mind and body allows me to have clearer thoughts. Being physically, emotionally and mentally healthier enables me to push forward and function more effectively, both at work and in life. Have enough rest, drink lots of water, eat fruits and vegetables, get up and move about are mantras are live by these days!
- BE YOURSELF
As cliché as it may sound, I’ve learnt to just be myself! Being myself makes me happier, more productive and fun! Understanding myself through the Emergenetics Profile also helped me understand the changes in my thinking preferences too ever since I became a mother. I’ve learnt to accept that change, and that person that I have grown to be.
- ACCEPT THAT YOU HAVE FLAWS AND BLIND SPOTS
No one is perfect. I know I am not. But I’ve learnt to accept my flaws, blind spots and what affects me. Understanding these helps me better manage myself and know how I can work in different situations. The Emergenetics Profile allowed me to gain an awareness of my thinking and behavioural preferences – understanding my blind spots and using my strengths to manoeuvre through them.
These are the 10 things I’ve learnt this year. I hope they can be good tips to your year ahead as well! Happy holidays and have a good start to the new year!
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