Hindsight is 2020: Starting off the New Decade with Reflection
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Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash
As we enter into the new year and decade, it's important to take stock and reflect. As such, members of the Young Women in Business (YWiB) Toronto team are sharing personal anecdotes with you to close out the decade and start the new year on a strong note.
Daisy, Program Coordinator
At the beginning of 2019, the keyword I chose for the year was 'Learning'. Just as it turned out, this year I have learned and grown spiritually, professionally and personally. I learned to be patient - great work takes time and consistent efforts and sometimes, we need to follow nature's course to allow things to unfold.
Milestones I'm proud of include launching the first SheMentors Mentorship Program with the amazing YWiB team, landing on a job opportunity that truly supports my growth and well-being, and being able to drive around in my very first car to experience a sense of freedom (I am sure you know what I am talking about 😊). These accomplishments amongst others make this year a very special one.
My 2020 theme of the year is 'Execution' - the ability to not only get things done but to get things done RIGHT. Do things that matter to my heart, continue to serve and be grateful for each day and each person has shown up in my life.
Lara, VP of Philanthropy and Programs
2019 has been one of the most challenging years for me on all levels, however, it has been also rewarding especially on a professional level. I have incorporated my business this year (Nurturing Tanmiya Inc.) - a long-awaited dream, and my life purpose! I finally got the courage to do it after being thoroughly involved in the NGO/development world since 2008!
I was also blessed to work with a great team of amazing women to support other young professional women across Toronto and grow the Chapter. We launched our flagship SheMentors Program this year, hosted amazing workshops, and got introduced to a great network of diverse women.
I feel that 2019 prepped me well for 2020, and I hope that 2020 will be a year where I can evolve and build on what I have achieved so far.
Nora, Content Coordinator
2019 was a year of stepping out of my comfort zone while also seeking balance. I always enjoy learning so I took on several online courses and a certificate and also joined two amazing volunteer adventures - with Young Women in Business Toronto and Access Community Capital Fund.
I love giving back but it was tricky at times to manage these commitments with a full-time job and planning a wedding! I really appreciated the challenge and grew so much through the courses, getting to know and work with the teams at YWiB and ACCF, and helping with the rewarding work they do. Learning balance and flexibility was a must and my confidence also improved along the way!
Schekina, VP of Marketing and Communications
I had an interesting year. The saying 'when it rains, it pours' encapsulates half of my year quite well. I had a lot of highs and lows, but if it weren't for the lows, I wouldn't have grown as much as I did and for that I am grateful.
In 2019, I moved twice, sustained 3 chronic illnesses and/or injuries, and went through difficult family conflicts. Those experiences helped me to appreciate my health, home, and family exponentially more than I have ever before. Without these things, things can be extremely difficult and unpleasant.
In 2020, I am looking forward to continuing to grow in all aspects of my life. I'm looking forward to travelling more, continuing to pursue my professional ambitions through more continuing education, professional opportunities, and community involvement (volunteer with YWiB here!), and marrying my best friend. I am so looking forward to seeing what 2020 has in store for me!
Sandra, President
2019 was the year of my rebirth. I embraced uncertainty and change. I started to learn how to let go of the meh and how to hold onto the yay. I clarified my professional goals and personal values. I worked hard being on fully present, and on being gentle with myself. I gained a new appreciation for putting boundaries around my mental space, and for doing what truly matters. I am still in the new baby crawling phase, but I'm hopeful for 2020. I know it will be the year where this baby learns to run.
2020, A year of Excellence
Intentional reflection and goal setting are paramount for self-growth and improvement. If you haven't already, take some time for yourself and think about how far you've come and where you want to go next. Remember to always be true to yourself.