Ways I got through 2023
Following my graduation, I embarked on a professional journey in the Tech startup area from 2014. However, the year 2023 proved to be the most challenging in the past decade, as the global economic downturn and the unpredictable flow of capital into Startups converged. Ascending to a level where pressures were tangible, I grappled with managing KPIs, leading a dynamic team, and safeguarding against unforeseen problems. As 2024 with predictions of further difficulties, this reality diary encapsulates countless emotions and lessons learned in the tumultuous journey of 2023 — ways to overcome storms and emerge stronger on the other side.
To recap my 2023 context:
At the end of 2022, I was in a challenging situation when I was assigned a fledgling CRM project. The company is struggling with recent layoffs and an extremely negative atmosphere. Going from being a Business Intelligence team leader to becoming a Business Owner of a CRM product was a confusing and scary experience that made me shudder. At that time, I was overthinking (of course), that if I didn’t seize the opportunity, the worst case scenario would be to resign…
Trying to swallow my fear, I encouraged myself to overcome it to have a source of income and be able to afford frivolous pleasures. I took small steps to adapt. It is worth noting that my boss and line manager have always encouraged and motivated me throughout this journey. And after 1 year, at the end of 2023, my product miraculously met my expectations, growing into an important tool to drive the company’s KPIs.
Here’s what I concluded “Ways to get through 2023”
- Courageous Confrontation: Cultivating my courage to step out of my comfort zone and facing challenges head-on has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. Embracing discomfort as a key for positive change has reshaped my approach to life.
- Take a Break: Recognizing the need for periodic breaks, I adopted the practice of temporarily distancing myself from work through travel. These moments of respite allowed for crucial self-reflection, recharging my energy, and returning with a fresh perspective.
- Collaborative Support: A crucial lesson unfolded in the power of seeking support from colleagues. Acknowledging the diverse skills and insights within the team fostered a culture of mutual assistance, enhancing both individual and collective success.
- Empowering Subordinates: Shifting my leadership style involved empowering subordinates to tackle challenges independently. Providing guidance while allowing them room for development nurtured a more resilient and self-sufficient team dynamic.
- Limitations as Catalysts for Growth: Acknowledging my soft skills and expertise limitations became a catalyst for continuous learning. Actively engaging in research, observation, and self-improvement has become a daily commitment, propelling me towards becoming a better version of myself.
- Unconventional Wisdom: Last but not least, in moments of uncertainty, turning to unconventional sources like astrology or tarot provided a unique perspective. While not a panacea for life’s challenges, these practices helped me facilitate quicker acceptance of circumstances, aiding in emotional recovery and hastening the return to the journey of personal development.
And No Raindrop Ever Falls In The Wrong Place
As 2023 comes to a close, the combination of these lessons has not only helped me improve myself, but also equipped me with the resilience and wisdom to face future challenges. Every challenge encountered, every collaborative effort, and every moment of self-reflection contributes to a journey of change, marking 2023 not as a year of obstacles but as a stepping stone towards a happier and more fulfilling life.
