I’ve been reflecting on my journey this week; tiring, but I learned a lot. Sometimes we push ourselves into new environments, and sometimes we get a little push and have to decide if we are going to sink or swim. And yes, I do feel that it is a choice – it is all to do with your determination and mindset, and the ability to know when to ask for help.
I learned very late in life that I had choices. The core values that were instilled into me were duty, loyalty, honesty and ‘doing the right thing’, and for for some reason I thought that once I’d made a decision I needed to see it through and stick by it no matter what the cost. I also had a very big fear of failure, I didn’t undertake something unless I knew I could achieve it which in hindsight held me back from experiencing the world and all its possibilities.
A seminal moment was when I realised that there is no shame in making a decision and starting down a path, and then coming to the understanding that the path isn’t right and deciding to stop, or change direction. I made a big scary decision twelve years ago to change the direction of my life, and push myself outside of my comfort zone.
These days I enjoy challenging myself and take opportunities that are offered even if I’m not confident I can achieve them. If you had asked me thirteen years ago whether I could have trekked to Everest Base Camp or that I would be an IT Project Manager, and successfully get through my first TI Planning as an Agile Delivery Manager, I would have said no.
I was interviewed for UCL’s weekly newsletter back in September 2023 and one of the questions was “What advice would you give your younger self?”. My advice was “To believe in myself more and to have the courage to take a risk, even if it doesn’t end in success. Also, to not forget that while I’m busy doubting myself, someone else is admiring my strength.”.
Stay strong, and have a great weekend!
Elizabeth Mooney 