The above photo was taken in 2016, 5 years ago. I was in front of a class of 30 mid-career professionals who had decided to make a career change and were learning to code. It was at a coding bootcamp. As a speaker, I shared my story of how I got into tech and my tips on how to thrive in the industry as a software developer.

It was also one of my very first speaking experiences. I didn't think I did well, but a few students told me that they found it valuable.

Since then I have been speaking at many events, conferences and workshops sharing my knowledge. I speak not because I enjoy speaking or being the centre of attention. In fact, I am quite the opposite. As an introvert, I enjoy my own company than being in group settings. However, I speak because sharing my knowledge and experiences to help others learn and excel in their careers is my passion.

However, with the pandemic, in-person events have become non-existent so I have been using other medium to share my knowledge.

Your career is a journey, not a destination. Each path you pursue, each person you talk to, each job that you take, each role that you gold is a stop along the journey.

To enjoy your career and to have extraordinary experiences in your journey, it requires determination, courage and the willingness to invest your time, energy and resources in your own growth.

I've done the same throughout my career and each time I make an effort to learn new things, I am always rewarded with a sense of achievement and renewed enthusiasm.

If you are ready to feel the same, don't wait for a sign. Or take this as a sign and start learning something. Do these 3 steps:

Make a plan with milestones. Be S.M.A.R.T (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound).
Commit to the plan. Put it in your calendar. Speak to your manager if you need to.
Celebrate your milestones. Reward yourself to keep the momentum going.

You may also check out my gumroad for resources and tools for engineering managers and software developers. From how to write a perfect resume, do well at interviews, be a superstar developer, become an effective engineering manager, to how to run an entire technology department as a CTO, you will find what you need and more.

“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.” – Anthony J. D’Angelo

If you’d like to connect with me, you can follow me on social media and online platforms.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/eisabai

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eisabai/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eisabaiN/

Website: http://eisabainyo.net

Check out my gumroad

Sneak preview of Strategic Planning and Execution module from my course for engineering managers

New Product Alert: 10 Days To A Happier You - Guided Journal for Ambitious Professionals

Being a Manager and Leader in a Western Country When English Isn't My First Language

From Struggle to Fluency: Transforming Tech Language for Leaders

Insightful Mid-Year Reflection Questions

See all posts from Isabel Nyo