“A journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step.”

-Lao-tzu, Chinese philosopher (604 BC – 531 BC)

Life is a journey, filled with a number of journeys within. The re-launch of my company as HR Aligned Design has been a big step on one of the bigger journeys within.

Consulting was never in the plan! However in 2010 I made the decision to try consulting. I was committed to making Hoffmann and Associates a success but knew I could try something else if consulting didn’t work out. As anyone who has started his or her own business will tell you, it is not for the faint of heart. I was excited, energized, challenged and very nervous all at the same time.

Fast-forward to 2013 and I am even more excited, energized and challenged (and still nervous!) but I am all in. What has led me to that decision? What have I learned?

1. The Challenges
The challenges have been both big and small. I have been challenged by the owning of my own business, the work and by individuals I worked with or met along the way. Each one either presented a new learning opportunity, a different point of view, caused me to re-think, to speed up or slow down. In each case, I was better for it. Welcome the challenges!

2. Marketing – I found my own way!
How was I going to get people to hire me? This perhaps was the biggest fear of all. Selling and marketing are not my thing, however, I found my comfort zone. Everyone tells you how important networking is and we all struggle to find time to go to that meeting or meet someone for lunch. Coffee, breakfast, lunch, association meetings, volunteering – all have led to opportunities big and small and usually from the places I least expected. Networking – always say yes!

3. Lifelong Learning
I am curious by nature and have always loved learning. As a consultant you interact with a variety of organizations and individuals. Each one has been a learning experience exposing me to something or someone new. The need to stay up to date is heightened. Lifelong Learning is a job requirement!

4. Work Life Balance
I can’t exactly say I am there yet but this new career has offered the opportunity to prioritize differently. Family, friends, experiences, passions and work– the flexibility will be there to enjoy and appreciate them all. I hope I am a better family member, friend and consultant for having balance!

The re-launch and new name of HR Aligned Design represent a sharper focus, renewed commitment and a celebration! Focus on the areas of HR I truly enjoy and can best lend my expertise; renewed commitment to doing work that is of value to my clients; a celebration of “I can do this!” and the endless possibilities for the future.

This blog is another big step for me and the achievement of a long articulated goal. I look forward to sharing more about “the journey”, what I hope will be some useful information in the world of HR and thoughts on some of my favorite topics: leadership, talent management, social media and maybe a little about my passion in mixed media art.

 


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One response to ““A journey of a thousand miles begins with just one step.””

  1. Justin says:

    Thank you Janet…for sharing your experiences with humility and in a productive way to learn from and apply in our own lives.

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