Amanda Newfield

If change is constant, then continuous upskilling and learning is the mechanism to manage and address change. The key to adopting a learning mindset is looking at every experience as an opportunity to learn and taking chances outside of your own comfort zone. Mistakes are welcomed learning opportunities. The only way we ensure our continued growth is by taking the chance to fail.

The human condition revolves around change. Change will happen whether we embrace it or not. Change is an opportunity--a time to lean into ambiguity and experiment. The key to embracing change is mindfulness. People who embrace change still feel the emotion change brings. Using mindfulness exercises to recognize and process those emotions is key to continued forward momentum. Strong time management skills are also critical to adapting to change and demonstrating flexibility.

In my experience, networking has been invaluable in all aspects of my career growth and trajectory. We must meet others, particularly others who have different experiences and perspectives, to learn, grow, and innovate. Everyone around us is busy; it's not enough to believe great work shines for itself. We must be active promoters of the value we deliver. We must seek out relationships for support, collaboration, and opportunity to be successful.

Successful leaders cultivate an attitude of continuous learning and improvement. There will always be room to grow. As leaders advance, they have larger and more complex issues to solve. One thing great leaders do well is make space for continuous improvement. Reserving time regularly to read, watch, and listen to others ignites strategic and innovative thoughts.

The top mistake I've experienced is not beginning any discussion on work/life balance without level setting on what work/life balance means and how fluid that balance can be over time. Individuals have unique experiences and perceptions of what balance looks live within the context of their lives. Beginning from the same point, helps me to adjust my approach based on what is meaningful to the individual. There is no one-size-fits-all solution for work/life balance - I often call it a fluid integration more than anything else. Understanding the starting point helps improve any recommended solutions I could offer.

Encouraging the exploration of technology platforms to automate tasks equals big wins for productivity and strategy execution. Work matters when we keep score. The latest platforms enable leaders to track critical objectives, automate reminders for themselves and others, and drive focus on accomplishing tasks that deliver business value. This makes meetings and discussions more meaningful as they become future-focused and less centered around status-checking. Teams and individuals can now achieve more and drive the successful execution of organizational strategies.