What am I good at?
I’m good at making people feel supported, whether I’m leading a training session or just being someone a friend can talk to. Professionally, I have a knack for taking complex information and turning it into something clear and engaging. Personally, I’ve learned I’m good at staying grounded under pressure and encouraging others when they need a boost. I bring both heart and strategy to the table, which helps in almost any setting.
What do I value?
I deeply value growth and connection, both for myself and for others. I’m constantly trying to learn more about people, about systems, about myself, and I appreciate spaces where curiosity is encouraged. I also value balance, even if it’s a work in progress. Whether I’m showing up for my team at work or carving out time for family or a quiet walk, I want to be intentional with where my energy goes.
How did I get here?
I’ve gotten here through a lot of hard work, curiosity, and leaning into what feels right. Moving from New Zealand to California at a young age shaped how I see the world and taught me how to adapt. Working in customer service taught me the value of empathy and communication, and evolving into a trainer helped me discover my passion for teaching and enabling growth. My journey has also heavily relied on trusting myself through change, and applying learned skills to shape the way I approach life and work today.
Where am I going?
I don’t have the full picture figured out, but I know I’m moving toward a life that feels both meaningful and aligned. Personally, that means staying close to the people who matter most and creating space for joy, even in the middle of all the busy. Professionally, I’m working toward becoming a more strategic voice in learning and development, potentially through instructional design or senior/management training roles. Personally, I’m learning how to advocate for myself more, whether that’s through asking for what I need or simply slowing down when things feel overwhelming. I don’t have all the answers yet, but I’m trying to build a life that aligns with my values, one intentional step at a time.
Hi Grace,
I enjoyed reading your reflection. It was deep, considerate, and genuine. What stood out to me most was your potential to combine emotional intelligence with strategic thinking. Being someone who can simplify complex ideas while additionally supplying actual support is an uncommon and powerful combination, especially in management and education roles (Peña 02). That strength will continue to serve you well as you grow professionally.
Your story about moving from New Zealand to California caught my attention, too. How did this teach you about adaptability and self-trust? You’ve embraced change not as a setback but as a part of progress, and that mindset is extraordinarily inspiring. I also admire your emphasis on intentionality, whether carving out time for what subjects are most essential or making a space for fun outside your busy schedule. Your commitment to living in alignment with your values honestly comes out well.
It’s interesting to hear about your desires to study and improve, mainly your interest in educational and management schooling. With your strong communication competencies and authentic preference to uplift others, you’ll make a significant impact. I’m curious to know the type of learning environments or agency cultures you feel most interested in. I would love to hear more about what ‘aligned’ seems like for you professionally. Thanks for sharing your journey.
Works Cited
Peña, Michael. “Steve Jobs to 2005 Graduates: ‘Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish’ | Stanford Report.” News.stanford.edu, 12 June 2005, news.stanford.edu/stories/2005/06/steve-jobs-2005-graduates-stay-hungry-stay-foolish.
Hi Grace, your post is really great and it sounds like you have a lot of compassion for your team and to see your team’s success in the future. It is always great to have a voice of reason when it comes to uncomfortable situations. I see your personality being a really great asset to a Human Resources or training department of a company. Possibly a quality improvement (if the company offers this position). You have a lot of self-awareness that is a great quality to have as a leader. You want to be intentional with your movements, but you are not afraid to analyze what you might need improvement in and be willing to grow with yourself.