In March, I blogged about making a Career Change from Teaching to Consultancy. Nine months on I am reflecting on my transition and contemplating how successful it has been. Success is a goal that I aspire to achieve, yet there are many times it is elusive and shrouded in mystery. We all yearn for a secret formula or a shortcut to attain it effortlessly. However, the true secret lies not in a magical solution but in the process of self-discovery and focused effort. In this blog, I delve into the key elements that I think have contributed so far to a successful transition to consultancy with P Rhodes Advisory and unveil the power of trying new things, identifying what works, and channelling effort towards excellence.
Embrace Exploration
My path to success has begun with an open mind and a willingness to explore. By venturing beyond my comfort zone, I have exposed myself to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives. Trying new things has expanded my horizons, enabling me to uncover hidden talents, passions, and opportunities. Success has sprung from the willingness to step into the unknown, challenge conventions, and embrace newness.
Seek What Works for You
I am extremely fortunate to be surrounded by an expert team of consultants at P Rhodes Advisory. I draw inspiration from them as I witness them successfully delivering quality results for the client. However, replicating their methods will not necessarily yield the same outcome for me. Everyone is unique, with their own strengths, weaknesses, and aspirations. The secret lies in experimenting with different approaches, learning from failures, and adapting strategies to fit specific circumstances. By continually refining and customising my methods, I have paved the way for success that aligns with my true self.
The Factors Influencing Success
I know success is influenced by a range of factors. Acknowledging this has helped me navigate my journey with greater awareness. These factors include:
Timing: The right opportunity at the right time can significantly impact the trajectory of success. In 2022, when I was considering making a career change from educational leadership to consulting, I was fortunate to be mentored by one of the P Rhodes Advisory Principal Consultants who possessed the unique talent of understanding my individual needs and aspirations. She assisted me to recognise and seize the favourable opportunity that joining the company would present me, so I grabbed on to the opportunity with attentiveness and preparedness.
Luck: Though often unpredictable, luck has played a role in my journey. Having a mentor that had successfully paved the way to consultancy before me, I was able to explore and plan what a successful pathway for me might look like.
Connections: Building a network of meaningful relationships has provided valuable support, guidance, and opportunities. Cultivating connections through P Rhodes Advisory and the Defence industry has expanded my sphere of influence and opened doors that may otherwise have remained closed.
Opportunity: Success often emerges from recognising and capitalising on opportunities. P Rhodes Advisory has provided me with varied work projects and vast professional learning opportunities. I have also actively sought and created opportunities that may propel myself and the company on our path to success.
Education: Continuous learning and acquiring knowledge are vital for personal and professional growth. I am privileged to work for a company that is happy to invest in education, both formal and informal, so that I can broaden my skill set and equip myself with the tools needed to excel.
Natural Skill/Ability: Everyone possesses inherent strengths and talents. I excel in fostering collaboration to achieve shared objectives, amongst other things, and that identifying and nurturing my abilities leads to a competitive edge and allows me to shine in what I do.
The Power of Focus
Working in a new industry has been an exhilarating journey, as it has allowed me to harness my teaching and leadership skills in a new way. While my previous experience was deeply rooted in education, I have found that my ability to impart knowledge and guide others has seamlessly translated into my current role. It is incredibly rewarding to witness how my expertise in pedagogy and leadership has contributed to fostering a collaborative and innovative environment within my new industry. I have discovered that the principles of effective teaching, such as clear communication, adaptability, and the ability to inspire and empower others, are not confined to schools but can be applied across various domains. This transition has not only broadened my horizons but has also reaffirmed the belief that education and leadership are versatile skills that can thrive and evolve in diverse professional landscapes.
The secret of success lies in the dynamic interplay between exploration and focus. It involves trying new things, learning from both successes and failures, and adapting strategies along the way. Success is not a one-size-fits-all concept; it is a deeply personal and ever-evolving journey. By embracing the process, honing unique strengths, and persistently seeking what works well, the potential within is unlocked and the way towards a fulfilling and prosperous future is paved. So, I challenge everyone to dare to explore, embrace your individuality, and let the secret of success unfold in your own life.
About the author
Natalie Dickie joined P Rhodes Advisory as an Executive Consultant in January 2023 following a 27-year educational career. P. Rhodes Advisory is a Canberra-based, female-run, consulting firm that specialises in strategic communication, policy development, strategic advice and training to Government, Defence and Defence Industry. Natalie is currently working for Defence in Army Headquarters as a strategic writer and was the lead consultant on a project for the Australian Airforce – Cadets Branch. She is responsible for the development and execution of project documentation to provide high quality advice and expert service to support project funding approvals.
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