It's not what you do, it's ...

I had the privilege to take part in a professional development and leadership program when a guest speaker stated, "It's not what you do, it's what you create." After years of unrewarded efforts I have often thought, what am I missing? This was exactly it.

My desire to avoid meaningless actions left me with many fantastical ideas and uncompleted projects. I'd often judge myself for not having awards or accolades that my peers had attained. Simultaneously, I was frustrated as they weren't working harder than I and often, they were doing less. My work ethic is known by those who have employed me but, what else did I have to show for a decade (and then some) of hard work? It was time to put my efforts into tangible gifts of completion.

After years of controlling bosses and cross-country moves, I wasn't left with much of a portfolio. However as it's said, it is never too late. Meanwhile I plan to put my efforts into the same things as before with one added detail. I will create something, even if it seems silly or unprofessional, as a tribute to a task completed. At first it is silly, or embarrassing. But as time grows, I find pieces of me in time.

As one project becomes inefficient or irrelevant to my career, it simultaneously proves to be a puzzle piece to the overall picture of my life's journey. Not only will this method help you to speak for yourself, providing critical tools for presenting yourself properly, it can become a type of scrap book of your works'. It will help you to reflect on your true self and surface an image which others are likely to see giving you the opportunity to change and grow if you so desire.

When one feels unaccomplished with an edging to a goal, find a way to create a folder or portfolio celebrating your efforts up to that point. It will make you feel better and will help other to see your worth. Months of overworked hours and sleepless night don't always present a final product, but it does not mean that is time lost. Use what you've learned, the "failures," to create the opposite. If nothing else, a journal entry could provide you with closure or insight for the next project.

Next time you are on a group zoom call or networking at a gala, consider what it is that you have to offer. Then think of the ways you've contributed to a specific outcome. Enjoy the night and share away! Always remember it's not what you do, it's what you create.