Written by: Esther Aluko, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Happy New Year! In reflecting on my journey through 2023, I can't help but acknowledge the unexpected challenges that came my way. The job market took an unexpected turn, affecting my career and coaching business leaving me feeling unsettled and undermining my confidence. Amidst this uncertainty, I found myself questioning my own guidance, navigating the repercussions these changes had on my professional path and personal circumstances.
Like many of you, I felt rooted by financial commitments and circumstances, unable to move as freely as I wished. But I realised that being human means having the capacity to move, adapt, and evolve despite the obstacles. My initial reaction was one of dismay, and the period tested my resilience and determination more than I could have imagined. However, I made a conscious decision to embrace resilience over resignation. I took a step back, reevaluated my strategies, sought guidance from my network, and even followed my own advice by engaging in specialised courses to expand my skill set and stay relevant in the evolving landscape.
As we step into 2024, I carry intentional optimism and high hopes. I've come to realise that setbacks are not endpoints but stepping stones toward greater achievements. My journey is a testament to this, and it serves as a beacon of hope for all those navigating their own career paths this year.
I stand here today, advocating for the power of adaptation. I've stumbled, just like experts often do, but it's the courage to rise and pivot that truly defines success. My commitment remains unchanged—to offer personalised guidance infused with the lessons I've learned from my own challenges. My enthusiasm for 2024 is palpable, and it's fuelled by my dedication to supporting others as they navigate their own career obstacles with empathy and unwavering support.
I hope my story resonates with you, reminding you that even career coaches face trials. Yet, it's our resilience and dedication to growth that propel us forward. Let's embrace 2024 with open hearts, acknowledging that within each setback lies untapped potential. Together, let's step into the New Year with optimism and resilience.
Esther Aluko, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
She is a Career and Personal Development Coach with almost ten years of experience. Her expertise is in Job & workplace readiness, career planning, growth, and personal development. Her work focuses on helping individuals build their capacity for career progression, navigate job transitioning with ease and achieve personal effectiveness using results-oriented methods. Her speaking engagements span the United Kingdom, Belgium, West Africa, and Ireland with corporate organizations and higher education institutions.
