6 Lessons I Learned From 2020 that I Carry Forward Into 2021

What. A. Year. Something no one can deny, regardless of where you sit around the business table.

2020 threw one tactical and strategic challenge at us after another. And while we still are processing what we learned during 2020, the year keeps up its relentless onslaught. Because we will drag the stuff left unresolved from 2020 into the New Year.

I offer these 6 lessons I learned from 2020. I will carry these lessons forward into the New Year. What are your lessons? Click here and let me know.

1. There is no single, specific, linear path or strategy to get from where you are today to where you really need to go tomorrow. Your path may take you cross-country. Follow it. There is stuff you already know or have learned that is ready to be recombined for today and tomorrow.
2. Avoid complacency and routine. I know I talk a lot about process and discipline to get to where you really need to go. However, when those processes and that discipline become obligations instead of anticipations, the next step is complacency. You won’t keep learning from the process or the discipline when you are in autopilot.
3. Know when and why you have had enough of what certain people have to say. At that point, it is time to leave. And when you do leave, move forward with purpose. Because new doors are already opening for you because of what you have to say.
4. What got you to where you are today is wonderful. However, getting stuck in Yesterday mindset may not be what the universe needs you to deliver, tomorrow. That is why you feel uncomfortable, unsettled and out of sync. You will be OK.
5. You are more strategic than you think you are. How many non-job-related issues did you juggle simultaneously? Did you become a supply chain and logistics expert coordinating food, clothing, learning schedules, and healthcare concerns? Add supply chain expert to your resume. You earned it. Maybe your next job should include those responsibilities. Why remain an order-taker when you really are an undiscovered innovator?
6. Saying “No” is powerful. Say “No” more often. Declutter your life. Our acquaintances and associates may ask favors of us, to which we acquiesce. And then regret, resent, and feel obligated to fulfill. There’s a lot of power in replying: “Upon reconsideration, I am declining your request.” No lengthy excuses. And if pressed, respond: “I’ve changed my strategic focus for 2021.” Because that is the truth, isn’t it? Who hasn’t changed their strategic focus for 2021?

Look at each of these 6 lessons I learned from 2020. Have you experienced the same insights? What would you add? How would you describe your own lessons? Click here and let me know.

Every day use these 6 lessons to take your daily professional pulse. So, together, we get to where we really need to go in 2021. I greatly appreciate your readership and continued support. Take good care, be safe, best wishes always. ~ Babette

I am a refreshingly extroverted STEM professional and left-brain thinker specializing in professional innovation, cross-functional leadership and client retention. I catalyze professionals to translate across communication and collaboration disconnects. Become more professionally visible, cross-functionally relevant and strategically valuable to your organizations. Better serve each other first so you better  serve your clients together. One millimeter at a time. My One Millimeter Mindset™  virtual and in-person speaking programs leverage Voice of the Customer design methodology and storytelling to move individuals, teams, departments and organizations one millimeter beyond yesterday’s tools and today’s professional comfort zones My playbook of cross-functional collaboration, Do YOU Mean Business? is available on Amazon.com. Contact me here. Image source: Adobe Stock