Resolutions for the New Year
In many ways 2004 was a transitional year in Poland, especially in light of joining the European Union.
In the spirit of the New Year, I would like to offer a few suggestions on some of the important areas of reflection for career-minded executives. You will notice that many of them are about finding time; time for yourself and time to focus on yourself. There is no contradiction between making time for ourselves and improving our performance and job satisfaction. A better skilled and more satisfied executive naturally performs better and more efficiently.
I will spend time developing my soft skills
For senior-level executives, reaching the next level is usually the result of superior 'soft' skills. Very few of us are born leaders and facilitators and most executives need to work on their communication skills, which can never be too strong.
On the other hand, soft skills are the most difficult ones to develop and focus on. Despite this, they are actually among the easiest ones to practice. A good place to start is through a self-evaluation: comparing how you would want to be described by others with how you think you are perceived. From there it is possible to identify opportunities-volunteering, training or on-the-job-that will allow you to develop or exercise these skills.
I will take the time to educate myself
Personal growth is a process of self-education. We tell our children to study, and we send our employees on training courses. What about ourselves? It can still be difficult to find short courses relevant to executive development in Poland (especially for English speakers), but the options are increasing. Furthermore, the internet and e-learning make many educational opportunities just a click away.
If an executive MBA is overly ambitious, then consider shorter or weekend business courses-perhaps combining it with a vacation. Many U.S. university alumni groups offer study vacation courses for adults.
It can also pay to think small. Focus on those skills or personality traits that you would like to improve and take a leadership seminar or consider a business writing class or a computer class. Maybe add a non-professional qualification related to a hobby or interest: a wine course, golf, yoga or another hobby class. The feeling of growing is a reward in itself and it is invigorating.
I will volunteer my time to help others
There are many foreign institutions active in volunteering in Poland, from the United Way and American Friends of Warsaw to Habitat for Humanity. There is also a substantial need for volunteers at orphanages and soup kitchens, not to mention other organizations.
Instead of giving a donation, give some time and some expertise. Don't be embarrassed if you can only give a little of your time, most organizations are only too happy to have the support.
I will not neglect my personal life
This is the hardest adage to hold to, so it is important to make concrete plans and resolutions. These can range from taking our children to school one day a week, through to being home for dinner or reserving a certain family time.
It is not just our children that need us, we need them and we need the support and life network of our partners/spouses, friends and family. A critical part of our personal feeling of well-being and success comes from personal success and through leisure. If we shortchange this in the pursuit of a career then we lose a critical element in the balance and harmony that we all need.
In the spirit of the New Year, I would like to offer a few suggestions on some of the important areas of reflection for career-minded executives. You will notice that many of them are about finding time; time for yourself and time to focus on yourself. There is no contradiction between making time for ourselves and improving our performance and job satisfaction. A better skilled and more satisfied executive naturally performs better and more efficiently.
I will spend time developing my soft skills
For senior-level executives, reaching the next level is usually the result of superior 'soft' skills. Very few of us are born leaders and facilitators and most executives need to work on their communication skills, which can never be too strong.
On the other hand, soft skills are the most difficult ones to develop and focus on. Despite this, they are actually among the easiest ones to practice. A good place to start is through a self-evaluation: comparing how you would want to be described by others with how you think you are perceived. From there it is possible to identify opportunities-volunteering, training or on-the-job-that will allow you to develop or exercise these skills.
I will take the time to educate myself
Personal growth is a process of self-education. We tell our children to study, and we send our employees on training courses. What about ourselves? It can still be difficult to find short courses relevant to executive development in Poland (especially for English speakers), but the options are increasing. Furthermore, the internet and e-learning make many educational opportunities just a click away.
If an executive MBA is overly ambitious, then consider shorter or weekend business courses-perhaps combining it with a vacation. Many U.S. university alumni groups offer study vacation courses for adults.
It can also pay to think small. Focus on those skills or personality traits that you would like to improve and take a leadership seminar or consider a business writing class or a computer class. Maybe add a non-professional qualification related to a hobby or interest: a wine course, golf, yoga or another hobby class. The feeling of growing is a reward in itself and it is invigorating.
I will volunteer my time to help others
There are many foreign institutions active in volunteering in Poland, from the United Way and American Friends of Warsaw to Habitat for Humanity. There is also a substantial need for volunteers at orphanages and soup kitchens, not to mention other organizations.
Instead of giving a donation, give some time and some expertise. Don't be embarrassed if you can only give a little of your time, most organizations are only too happy to have the support.
I will not neglect my personal life
This is the hardest adage to hold to, so it is important to make concrete plans and resolutions. These can range from taking our children to school one day a week, through to being home for dinner or reserving a certain family time.
It is not just our children that need us, we need them and we need the support and life network of our partners/spouses, friends and family. A critical part of our personal feeling of well-being and success comes from personal success and through leisure. If we shortchange this in the pursuit of a career then we lose a critical element in the balance and harmony that we all need.
