Rita O

What is the biggest challenge you had to overcome to get to where you are now professionally? How did you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges I had to overcome in my journey to become a successful career coach and adjunct teacher was balancing multiple responsibilities while striving for excellence in both roles. This challenge manifested itself when I transitioned from a full-time career in the corporate world to pursue my passion for helping others in their careers and teaching. When I first started, I found it difficult to manage my time effectively, as I was juggling teaching classes, preparing lectures, coaching clients, and attending to my family life. To overcome this challenge, I took a few essential steps: Prioritization: I began by identifying my core responsibilities in both roles and prioritizing them based on their importance and deadlines. This allowed me to allocate my time and energy effectively, ensuring that I was focused on the most critical tasks. Time management: I developed a time management system that included creating a detailed weekly schedule, setting clear goals, and breaking tasks into smaller, manageable components. This helped me stay organized and maintain a sense of control over my workload. Delegation and collaboration: I learned to delegate tasks and collaborate with colleagues whenever possible, which not only helped me manage my workload but also provided valuable opportunities for professional growth and networking. Self-care and setting boundaries: Recognizing the importance of self-care and work-life balance, I set boundaries to protect my personal time and invested in activities that helped me recharge and maintain my well-being. By implementing these strategies, I was able to overcome the challenge of balancing multiple responsibilities while excelling in both my roles as a career coach and adjunct teacher. This experience has not only made me a more effective professional but has also given me valuable insights that I can share with my clients and students as they navigate their own career journeys.

What is the most useful piece of career advice you got as a student, and who gave it to you?

The most useful piece of career advice I received as a student came from one of my professors during my final year of college. The advice was, "Always focus on continuous learning and adaptability, as they will be your greatest assets in an ever-changing job market." My professor emphasized the importance of staying curious, open to new ideas, and being willing to invest time and effort in acquiring new skills. He shared his own experiences of how embracing a growth mindset and being adaptable had allowed him to excel in his career and navigate various challenges. This advice has been incredibly valuable throughout my professional journey. In today's dynamic job market, where industries are constantly evolving, and new technologies emerge rapidly, it is crucial to remain adaptable and committed to lifelong learning. By doing so, I have been able to stay ahead of the curve, grow my expertise, and better serve my clients and students. I am grateful to my professor for imparting this wisdom, which has not only shaped my career path but also become a cornerstone of the guidance I provide as a career coach and adjunct teacher.