As 2016 comes close to an end, I’ve started reflecting on everything that has happened this past year. Everyone can agree that 2016 wasn’t the best year, but for me this year has been the hardest year of my life. It was challenging, draining and never ending in every aspect. But as I think back and relive the rollercoaster of emotions that I went through, 2016 was also humbling and inspiring. I can honestly say Gossip Genie played a large role in that with 2 major things working there taught me.
It’s okay to accept help
If you know me, you know I am not a fan of asking people for help. I like to think I can juggle everything on my own and still come out strong. But when life happens and hits you with an unexpected dose of a reality, it’s easy to lose track of things and completely lose focus.
Earlier this year my mother passed away and it really took a toll on me. During that time, the love and support from the Genies were far beyond amazing. They picked up my workload without hesitation and didn’t bother me for a second about work. They allowed me to take the time I needed for myself to heal. The way everyone came together to support me during a difficult time made me realize that it’s okay to just let go and accept help. Even when you feel like you can handle it all on your own, sometimes you really can’t.
And that’s okay because no one is perfect.
It’s okay to take risks
Although my mother passed away in March, it wasn’t until this summer when I realized I never took the time to process what happened and properly grieve. With that, I made the hardest decision in my professional career and took a break from Gossip Genie. It was a huge risk because I didn’t know what I was going to do. I didn’t have a plan or an idea of what I even wanted to do. I just had a gut feeling that leaving was the best thing for me in that moment.
Fast forward 3 months and I am back at Gossip Genie with the biggest smile on my face. Because I did what I felt was best for me, I was able to experience so much in a short amount of time and come back with a clearer mind. I was able to take time for myself, travel to different countries and figure out what I truly wanted. I connected with family members I never knew I had. I even visited my dad who I haven’t seen in over 5 years. But most importantly I learned how to be myself again and be happy, which allowed me to be an even better, more productive employee.
So if you are ever unsure or are afraid to do something in 2017, listen to your gut and don’t be afraid to take the risk. In the end, no one knows you better than yourself.
