Strategy & Finance
When I think about my career so far, it’s not the deals closed, the projects delivered, or even the accolades that come to mind first. What stands out most are the people—the colleagues, mentors, and even the mentees—who shaped not just my professional life but my perspective on what truly matters. It’s a story of learning to be genuine, investing time in others, and experiencing the unmatched joy of seeing someone else grow. 🌱✨
There was a time early in my career when I thought success meant being impressive, always showing my best side, and never admitting I didn’t have all the answers. I believed that professionalism was about being polished and perfect. But then I met a colleague who shattered that notion in the best way possible.
They were the kind of person who made you feel at ease instantly. They didn’t try to impress; they simply listened, asked questions, and offered help without expecting anything in return. One evening, as I was struggling with a deadline, they noticed and stayed late to help me—not because they had to, but because they genuinely cared. ❤️
That experience stuck with me. It taught me that people value authenticity over perfection. Being genuine doesn’t mean always knowing the right thing to say or do; it means showing up with honesty, empathy, and a willingness to connect. From then on, I tried to carry that lesson with me. And the more I embraced authenticity, the more I saw how people responded—not just with respect, but with trust. 🌟
A few years later, I was fortunate to have a mentor who fundamentally changed how I viewed relationships at work. They weren’t just brilliant at what they did; they were generous with their time. No matter how busy they were, they always made time for me and others, whether it was for a quick check-in or a deep conversation about challenges I was facing.
At the time, I didn’t fully understand the weight of what they were giving me. But as I grew in my own career, I began to see it more clearly. Time is the most valuable asset we have. When someone gives you their time, they’re giving you a piece of their life. And when you do the same for others, it creates something priceless—an emotional bond that strengthens trust and loyalty. 💞
Inspired by that mentor, I began making a conscious effort to give my time to others. Whether it was mentoring a junior colleague, offering support to a friend, or just being fully present in a conversation, I realized that these moments of generosity weren’t just appreciated—they often came back tenfold in the form of meaningful connections and shared successes. 🌈
One of the most profound moments in my career wasn’t about my own success—it was about someone else’s. A colleague I had been mentoring for months called me one day to share that they had earned a major promotion. Their voice was filled with excitement, and they thanked me for the role I had played in their journey. 🥳
What they didn’t know was how much that moment meant to me. Hearing their pride and knowing I had contributed to their growth felt like a greater reward than any personal achievement. It was a reminder that true fulfillment doesn’t come from climbing the ladder alone—it comes from helping others climb alongside you. 💪💡
There’s something incredibly special about seeing someone thrive and knowing you played a part in their story. It’s not just about professional development; it’s about the human connection that underpins it all. 🌻
Looking back, these experiences have shaped how I approach my career and relationships today. I’ve learned that being genuine isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s the foundation of trust and respect. I’ve seen how giving my time freely, without expectation, creates bonds that last far beyond the workplace. And I’ve felt the deep joy of watching others grow, knowing that their success is a shared triumph. 🎉
As I step into the next chapter of my journey, I carry these lessons with me. I know now that the legacy I want to leave isn’t about titles or accolades—it’s about the relationships I build and the lives I touch along the way. 🌟🌍
So, to anyone reading this: Be genuine. 🤗 Give your time. ⏳ Celebrate the growth of others. 🌱 Because at the end of the day, it’s not the work we do that defines us—it’s the connections we make and the lives we impact. And those, I believe, are what truly last. ❤️
