Stepping Up to New Challenges

Introduction

Often, we ponder the issue of success or failure in life.

• What does it mean to be successful?
• Is it measured by our monthly salary or the profound meaning in our work?

It is inspiring to see people who have made breakthrough innovations that change the world.

• But, many of us are just leading ordinary lives, working and going home to our families at the end of the day.

Remember, success is defined as the accomplishment of an aim or purpose. Have you led the life you have always wanted?

• If yes, then you are living your dream.
• Do not let other people's expectations dictate how you should live your life.
• For example, you do not have to buy a luxury car, send 520 flowers on Valentine's Day or travel the world to be successful.

Comfort Zone

There are times when a small idea planted in our mind can eventually break through our mental barriers.

• We start to see things around us in a new light.

In a pharmacist alumni networking session, I found it insightful and enjoyable to hear the perspectives of another pharmacist who works in a different industry. This thought-provoking experience inspired me to achieve more.

• I have been evaluating and approaching things based on clinical knowledge. However, in life, there are many soft skills that we are constantly seeking in others, such as effective communication, analytical thinking, leadership, innovation, teamwork and problem-solving.
• In life, we should be energized and positive to the people we meet. If we have a good intention, we should not hesitate to take a proactive step to help them achieve their goals. We should learn to appreciate their strengths and provide encouragement and advice to help them grow and succeed.

Reading Up a Book or Picking Up a New Skill

Assuming I am a contract pharmacist, I would need to not only upgrade my clinical knowledge, but pick up knowledge and skills beyond the scope of pharmacy to be more competitive.

• When you spend time and effort to learn a new skill, it will be with your forever. No one can take it away from you.

Even if there is no urgent need for it now, there is not harm in knowing more.

• Huge changes often start with small, baby steps too.
• Do not wait for the perfect opportunity, but just start taking small steps today.
• You never know where they might lead you.

Also, it is just as important to upsell yourself for others to see your potentials.

Conclusion

Stepping up to new challenges can be daunting, but it is often the key to achieving our goals.

• By breaking out of our comfort zone and learning new skills, we can open up new possibilities for ourselves.

Failure is an inevitable part of the process of success. Those who avoid failure also avoid success.

• In school, we are taught that mistakes are bad, and we may be punished for making them. However, in life, we learn to walk by falling down and there is no professional player who never loses a match. For winners, losing is an inspiration.
• Remember, actions always beats inaction.