Upskilling; Taking time for Yourself
Investing in yourself can be one of the hardest things to do. Often you can be constrained by competing priorities. In my career journey, I have made a point of continuing to upskill myself. This has mostly occurred when I have transitioned from role to role.
I started my career as a Fitting and Turning apprentice. By completing this course of study, I would attain a formal qualification. I completed that and quickly realised that working in cold workshops was not for me. While embarking on a big OE I decided that I would give engineering drafting a go. I managed to secure a role as a junior draftsman. In this time I transitioned from paper drawing to CAD (Computer Aided Drafting) As I progressed in my roles, I was given more and more responsibility for projects and people. Subsequently, I studied Business Management at a tertiary level. My roles transitioned from production to operations and then to human resources. I spent a larger part of my career in the people leading space. Now I work for myself, finding fulfilment in inspiring purpose in others for a legacy of effective influence. This looks like helping others to find success in their chosen pursuits, both personal and business.
“Make room for upskilling”
When you upskill, you grow. As you grow you are able to step into more opportunities. Here are some benefits of upskilling yourself.
Enhanced Career Opportunities:
By acquiring new skills, you make yourself eligible for a wider range of roles, promotions, and responsibilities within your organisation or industry. Employers are always on the lookout for individuals who bring fresh expertise to the table, making you a more attractive candidate for leadership positions or specialised roles. This, in turn, often leads to higher earning potential as your value in the job market increases.
Increased Confidence and Adaptability:
Learning new skills boosts your confidence, empowering you to take on new challenges and responsibilities with a sense of assurance. This confidence also makes you more resilient in the face of change. In today’s fast-paced world, adaptability is crucial—new technologies, methodologies, and industry trends emerge constantly. By upskilling, you ensure that you stay relevant and capable, no matter how the landscape evolves.
Personal and Professional Growth:
Upskilling isn’t just about professional advancement; it’s also a pathway to personal growth. The process of learning new skills can be deeply fulfilling, keeping your mind sharp and curious. As you expand your knowledge, you also develop intellectually and emotionally, which can lead to greater self-awareness and satisfaction in both your personal and professional life. Additionally, aligning your skills with your long-term goals helps you stay focused and motivated, ensuring that you continue to progress in the direction you desire.
Job Security and Marketability:
In a competitive job market, up-to-date skills make you more valuable to employers, reducing the likelihood of redundancy or job loss. Being highly skilled in areas that are in demand makes you indispensable to your organization, as well as more attractive to potential employers. This increased marketability ensures that you remain a sought-after candidate, giving you greater control over your career trajectory and the ability to navigate the job market with confidence. This could even mean going out on your own.
As you move through life, make upskilling an intentional part of it. Don’t wait for things to come to you, go after them.
My Learnings:
Upskilling gave me confidence in affirming what I was already doing.
Taking time to upskill has enabled me to step into new opportunities .
Life is a journey, and I don’t need to settle for one career pathway
As you take time to intentionally upskill, think about this: Where you are now and where do you need to be?
My Questions for you:
Where are you needing to upskill and how will that help you?
How did you feel when you changed a role and weren’t given the opportunity to upskill?
What skills do you have that can help others?
“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” – Benjamin Franklin
Reach out, and let's take time to discover how we can progress together. Remember daily to, 'Find value in your influence.' Your voice matters, and I'm excited to hear from and work with you!"
Written By: Paul Fawcett.
