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Career Transition
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Career Transition: Navigating Change and Finding Success in a New Field

Transitioning careers can be a transformative journey filled with both excitement and uncertainty, especially for women seeking to chart a new professional path. Whether motivated by a desire for personal growth, a change in industry trends, or the pursuit of passion, embarking on a career transition requires careful planning, courage, and resilience.

Assessing Skills and Interests

The first step in navigating a career transition is to assess your skills, strengths, and interests. Reflect on past experiences, hobbies, and areas of expertise to identify transferable skills that can be leveraged in a new field. Consider taking career assessment tests or seeking guidance from mentors and career counselors to gain clarity on your career goals and aspirations.

Exploring New Career Paths

Once you have identified your skills and interests, it’s time to explore potential career paths. Research industries and roles that align with your passions and values, and consider the qualifications and experience required for success in these fields. Networking with professionals in your desired industry, attending industry events, and seeking informational interviews can provide valuable insights and connections.

Overcoming Fears and Uncertainties

Embarking on a career transition can evoke feelings of fear, self-doubt, and uncertainty. It’s natural to feel apprehensive about stepping out of your comfort zone and venturing into the unknown. However, it’s important to recognize that change often brings growth and new opportunities. Practice self-compassion, cultivate a growth mindset, and surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, and mentors who can offer encouragement and guidance along the way.

Real-Life Success Stories

To inspire and motivate readers, real-life success stories of women who have successfully navigated career transitions can provide valuable lessons and encouragement. These stories serve as testaments to the power of resilience, determination, and adaptability in overcoming challenges and achieving professional fulfillment in new fields.

Navigating a career transition requires a combination of self-reflection, strategic planning, and courage. By assessing your skills and interests, exploring new career paths, and overcoming fears and uncertainties, you can embark on a journey of personal and professional growth. Remember, with determination and perseverance, success in a new field is within reach.

Are you ready to embrace change and pursue your passion? The journey awaits – seize the opportunity and embark on your career transition today!

Photo Credit: Christina Morillo

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Chichi Okiche
In Inspiration By

Chichi Okiche’s Inspiring Tale Of Innovation And Impact

Amidst the ever-evolving landscape of professional success and entrepreneurial ventures is a figure whose journey epitomizes dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment – Chichi Okiche. With a fervent passion for shaping exceptional talent and driving organizational success, Chichi’s story is one of resilience, determination, and remarkable achievements.

A Journey of Expertise and Excellence

Armed with a degree in Human Resource Management, Chichi embarked on her professional odyssey over 13 years ago. Currently serving as a Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition and Development, she has carved a niche for herself in building high-performing teams and implementing strategic recruitment initiatives that seamlessly align with organizational goals. Her prowess in identifying and nurturing top-tier talent has been instrumental in fostering a culture of continuous growth within her organizations.

Beyond the Corporate Realm

Yet, Chichi’s narrative extends far beyond the confines of corporate success. A visionary entrepreneur at heart, she is the Founder of Sokiche Consulting – a dynamic firm specializing in Social Media Management and HR Consulting. With an astute understanding of the ever-evolving digital landscape and human resource dynamics, Chichi leads her team in crafting compelling strategies for brands, guiding them through the intricacies of the modern business landscape.

Entrepreneurial Spirit and Innovation

Further showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit, Chichi is also the driving force behind Kokahair – a thriving human hair wig company. Through Kokahair, she empowers individuals to embrace self-expression and confidence, offering quality hair products that redefine beauty standards.

Making an Impact Beyond Business

Yet, Chichi’s impact transcends mere business ventures. As a socially conscious leader, she actively participates in non-profit projects supporting black businesses in Canada. Her unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity underscores her dedication to making a positive impact beyond professional realms.

As she continues to trailblaze across industries, Chichi remains a beacon of inspiration to aspiring professionals and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Join us in celebrating the remarkable journey of Chichi Okiche – a true testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.

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Grief
In self development By

Esther Ijewere: Whispers Of Grief

 In the silent moments of the night, grief visited me, bringing a heaviness that words struggle to express. I decided to take a break from my usual routine, uninstalling some apps in hopes of finding a quiet space to process the recent losses.

After a week of what seemed like a needed break, I reached out to Yemi, an old friend. Our chat started with everyday things, like his app called GrabHub, where people in Canada can get discounted groceries. Little did I know that our talk would take a turn towards grief. I asked how he dealt with losing a loved one and he said ‘I just had to accept they were never coming back and live with that.’

Biola, a friend, also shared her experience with grief, telling me about her mom’s passing  few years ago. In her heartfelt words, I felt a connection and an understanding of the pain that grief brings. She encouraged me to take my time and honor my emotions.

However, amid these supportive moments, a jarring message arrived from someone who didn’t understand the need for me to take a  break. It made me realize that people have different ways of dealing with grief, and sometimes, it’s okay to step back and be alone.

From this experience, a few lessons emerged—lessons that I carry with me.

Firstly, everyone responds to grief differently. It’s like a song, and each person’s tune is unique. Understanding and empathy are crucial during such times.

Secondly, I learned the importance of setting boundaries, especially when emotions are raw. The incident with the insensitive message made me realize the need to protect my space during vulnerable moments.

Thirdly, I discovered the power of intentional solitude. Choosing to be alone can be a way to heal and rediscover oneself. This journey is teaching me that silence can be a friend in times of grief.

Additionally, as part of my coping mechanisms, I find solace in reading daily affirmations for grief, a practice I share on page 11 of my book, ‘How to Make Affirmations Work for You.‘

 

 

Currently, I am immersing myself in the wisdom of ‘What A Time to Be Alone’ by Chidera Eggerue, finding comfort and insights in the pages of these sources.

In the days ahead, I plan to explore  Yemi’s app, GrabHub, finding comfort in simple things like looking at African food photos. It’s my way of coping with the pain and grounding myself.

As I navigate this silent season, I hope these lessons resonate with others facing grief. May we all find our unique paths to healing and honor the memories of those we’ve lost.

 I dedicate this article to the memory of my late dad; Emmanuel Ijewere and friends; Rinret Gofwan  and Uche Ugo. They all added color and light to my life in different ways, and their memories remain cherished.

Grief
Late Emmanuel Ijewere, Rinret Gofwan and Uche Ugo
With my late Dad, Emmanuel Ijewere, a few years ago

Rest In peace, Daddy…

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self-love and confidence-building
In Career Gems By

How To Ignite The Power Of Self-Love: Building Confidence And Resilience

Embarking on a journey of self-discovery in a world that often demands perfection and relentless achievement, the transformative path of embracing self-love and building confidence becomes an empowering narrative for women seeking resilience and personal fulfillment. In this blog post, we delve into the art of self-love and confidence-building—essential components for navigating life’s challenges and thriving as a modern woman. How to Ignite the Power of Self-Love: Building Confidence and Resilience offers actionable insights that will guide you through this empowering journey, fostering a deeper connection with yourself and unlocking the true potential within.

Embracing the Journey

The journey to self-love is a personal and transformative one. Begin by acknowledging that imperfections are part of what makes you uniquely beautiful. Share personal stories and experiences that resonate with the struggles and triumphs of embracing oneself authentically.

Building Confidence Brick by Brick

Confidence is not an inherent trait; it’s a skill that can be developed over time. Provide actionable tips and strategies for building confidence, whether through setting and achieving small goals, celebrating accomplishments, or practicing positive affirmations. Share stories of women who have transformed self-doubt into unshakable confidence.

Nurturing Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adversity. Discuss the importance of resilience in personal growth and provide practical advice on cultivating this trait. Highlight stories of women who have faced adversity head-on, showcasing their resilience and the valuable lessons gained from overcoming obstacles.

Self-Love Rituals and Practices

Explore various self-love rituals and practices that contribute to overall well-being. From mindfulness exercises and self-care routines to embracing self-compassion, offer actionable insights that readers can incorporate into their daily lives. Share personal anecdotes or success stories illustrating the positive impact of these practices.

Voices of Empowerment

Feature interviews or quotes from inspiring women who have embraced self-love, built confidence, and demonstrated resilience. Their voices can serve as a source of motivation and encouragement for readers navigating similar journeys. Include diverse perspectives to resonate with a broad audience.

Conclusion:

Embracing self-love, building confidence, and cultivating resilience are powerful tools that every woman can wield on her journey to personal fulfillment. By sharing stories, insights, and actionable tips, we hope to inspire and empower our readers to embark on their own transformative journeys, realizing the strength and beauty that lie within.

In a world where self-love is revolutionary, let’s celebrate the unique journey each woman takes toward embracing her authenticity, building unshakeable confidence, and cultivating resilience in the face of life’s ebbs and flows.

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Homeless black sisters
In Career Gems By

Six Formerly Homeless Black Sisters from NYC Are All Now Becoming Nurses

In the heart of New York City, amidst the towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, the incredible journey of the Lawrence siblings is a testament to resilience, determination, and unwavering faith. Six sisters, once homeless, are now on a remarkable journey to fulfill their dreams of becoming nurses, and their story is nothing short of inspiring.

The Lawrence Siblings’ Journey: Overcoming Homelessness and Hardship

Back in 2013, the Lawrence family faced a devastating turn of events when they lost their home in Queens, New York City. David and Yonette Lawrence, the parents of the six sisters, found themselves confronted with the harsh reality of homelessness. Their family’s life took a dramatic turn as they moved from one relative or friend’s house to another, seeking shelter and stability, as they later shared with People magazine.

“It was challenging,” recalls 24-year-old Lauren. “There were a lot of very bumpy, depressing times.” The struggle to find a place to call home was a constant battle, and it took a toll on the family.

Educational Pursuit : From GEDs to Bachelor’s Degrees

Two years into this gruelling ordeal, their father, David, made a courageous decision. He refused to let their circumstances hinder the education and dreams of his daughters. The Lawrence sisters, who had been grappling with disrupted schooling due to their ever-changing living situation, enrolled in a homeschool program. Their goal? To earn their GEDs and ensure their education remained on track.

“He didn’t want what we were going through to hold us back,” explained 25-year-old Dominique. This decision marked a turning point in their lives, as they embarked on a path filled with challenges but brimming with determination and hope.

Unyielding Faith : The Driving Force Behind Their Success

The Lawrence sisters defied the odds and shattered the barriers in their way. In 2019, all six of them successfully earned their GEDs. Their journey continued as they enrolled in Nassau Community College and, later, proudly graduated from SUNY Old Westbury with bachelor’s degrees in public health in May.

“It’s been quite an adventure,” shared 22-year-old Danielle. “But what really pulled us through is our faith in God and in each other.” Their unwavering support for one another, coupled with their unshakable faith, carried them through even the darkest of times.

Future Prospects: Master’s Program in Public Health and Beyond

Today, these extraordinary siblings, aged 19 to 25, declare that this is just the beginning of their remarkable journey. In August, they embarked on a master’s program in public health at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. Their eyes are set on the future, as they plan to attend nursing school to further their education and expertise.

Father’s Pride : A Proud Parent’s Perspective

Their father, David Lawrence, couldn’t be prouder of his daughters, who have defied adversity to chase their dreams and emerge stronger than ever. “I’m so happy that they’ve done this together,” he said, beaming with pride. “I always tell them, ‘Life’s not fair. And when it throws you a curveball, you’ve got to adjust to it and keep going.'”

An Inspiring Story of Triumph

The Lawrence sisters’ journey is a powerful reminder that with determination, a strong support system, and unwavering faith, one can overcome even the most challenging circumstances. As they continue to pursue their dreams in the field of healthcare, their story serves as an inspiration to us all, demonstrating that resilience can lead to incredible achievements.

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Cherice Williams Blaq Luxury Hair
In Career Gems By

Cherice Williams: Turning Hair Loss Into A Million-Dollar Enterprise Through Resilience And Innovation

Cherice Williams, a driven individual with a knack for math during high school, naturally gravitated towards pursuing an accounting degree in university, setting her sights on becoming a Financial Analyst. “That was my passion,” Williams affirms.

However, life took an unexpected turn. Financial constraints forced her to halt her studies in her home country of Jamaica. Determined to reclaim her education, she ventured to the US in 2016 in search of work.

After two years of working as a housekeeper and waitress, Cherice found herself unable to afford her return to school. Not only was her situation stagnant, but her health was deteriorating as well. “I was experiencing hair thinning. I put on a lot of weight in my stomach area, and my menstrual cycles were not regular.”

In 2018, a medical diagnosis revealed she had Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder with various implications. Despite the setback, Cherice decided to address her manageable symptoms, like her hair loss. This small act inadvertently paved the way for her to establish a thriving multi-million-dollar hair business—Blaq Luxury.

Taking the Initiative Cherice delved into research to find solutions for her hair concerns. Drawing from the popularity of Jamaican Black Castor Oil in the West Indies, she began concocting mixtures of various oils and ingredients renowned for promoting hair growth. Soon, she noticed a significant reduction in hair shedding.

Motivated to assist other women facing similar challenges, Cherice started offering her elixir to fellow sufferers. Sharing her product within a Facebook group dedicated to PCOS-related discussions garnered steady interest. This marked the turning point as Cherice inadvertently embarked on her entrepreneurial journey.

From Concoction to Commerce As her product gained traction within the Facebook group, Cherice recognized the potential for business growth. Despite financial constraints, she took the risk of investing more time and effort into her venture. A crucial step was reaching a wider audience, which led her to explore collaboration with influencers.

The Shade Room, a prominent social media account, responded positively to her request for promotion. Cherice, believing in her product’s market potential, invested her rent money into a promotion with them. In an incredible twist of fate, she recouped her investment within 24 hours of the post going live.

Cherice’s resourcefulness continued to propel her business. She repeatedly invested in promotions and steadily gained organic growth through word of mouth and returning customers.

Navigating Challenges and Expansion

Cherice’s determination to expand her business led her to approach local beauty supply stores. Although many attempts yielded no success, her tenacity paid off when a fellow businesswoman expressed interest in featuring Blaq Luxury in her store.

This experience taught Cherice the complexities of entering stores, including adhering to packaging regulations and revising formulas to meet industry standards. After significant effort, Blaq Luxury now graces the shelves of over 500 beauty supply stores, with forthcoming launches in well-known retailers.

Lessons in Patience and Perseverance

Cherice’s entrepreneurial journey taught her patience and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook. “Everything is a process,” she reflects. The experience of growing Blaq Luxury has imbued her with the ability to look beyond challenging days and focus on a brighter future. She believes that despite industry giants, small companies can also thrive with dedication and hard work.

Future Ventures and Encouragement

Looking ahead, Cherice envisions expanding into the mass retail market, making Blaq Luxury accessible to a wider audience. She also plans to donate a portion of her company’s profits to PCOS organizations. Although her career trajectory shifted away from becoming a Financial Analyst, Cherice still intends to complete her degree once her business stabilizes.

Cherice’s journey is a testament to the unpredictable yet rewarding path of entrepreneurship. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is resounding: “If you believe that you have a great product or service to offer and you think it is in demand, and you can make a difference, my advice is to go for it. Put your all into it because you never know where it will take you until you try.”

Source: Bauce Mag

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Winfinite Consulting
In Inspiration By

Fola Adegoke: Transforming Lives Through Cybersecurity Education And Mentorship

Fola Adegoke is the founder and lead Career Coach at Winfinite Consulting. She is a trailblazer in the field of Cybersecurity & IT Audit training. With a passion for empowering professionals and a comprehensive understanding of career challenges and opportunities. With her expertise and passion, Fola has become a trusted guide and inspiration for professionals seeking success in cybersecurity. Her journey is a testament to the power of determination, knowledge, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams.

In this article, we will explore Fola’s remarkable journey, the inspiration behind Winfinite Consulting, and how her immigration to Canada four years ago transformed her life.

Fola Winfinite Consulting

Early Influences

Fola’s childhood laid the foundation for her current career. Growing up in a loving and supportive environment, she nurtured a thirst for learning and problem-solving. Her talkative nature and communication skills developed during lively conversations with family and friends, unknowingly shaping her future role as a Cybersecurity Career Coach. Fola’s dreams of becoming an Engineer instilled her with a passion for critical thinking and puzzle-solving—essential qualities in the cybersecurity industry.

The Birth of Winfinite Consulting

Her strong desire to promote diversity and equality in the industry led her to establish Winfinite Consulting. Witnessing the struggles faced by immigrants in finding rewarding jobs due to non-recognition of qualifications, she leveraged her expertise in Cybersecurity and IT Audit to guide and empower them. Fola’s guidance became highly sought after, driving her to create Winfinite Consulting as a platform to empower individuals from all backgrounds. The goal was to provide practical, hands-on training that would prepare aspiring professionals for the challenges they would face in the cybersecurity industry.

The Journey of Winfinite Consulting

Since its inception, Winfinite Consulting has experienced remarkable growth and success. Fola’s coaching approach, centered around individual aspirations and development, has empowered numerous professionals to transition into high-demand cybersecurity careers. The positive impact of Winfinite Consulting is evident in the success stories of individuals who have unlocked hidden potential and secured rewarding jobs. Fola’s expertise as a thought leader, trainer, and speaker has garnered recognition and earned her nominations for prestigious awards.

Challenges in the Cybersecurity Landscape

Fola encounters various challenges in her line of work. Keeping pace with the ever-evolving threat landscape requires constant upskilling and staying updated on industry trends and regulations. Bridging the skills gap and addressing the talent shortage in the cybersecurity industry is another significant challenge. Fola strives to attract and nurture diverse talent by providing practical training that prepares students for real-world challenges. Balancing security and usability is an ongoing endeavor that requires innovative approaches and a deep understanding of both security principles and practical usability.

Inspiring Women in Cybersecurity

Fola’s work has become a beacon of inspiration for women in the field. By breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes, she showcases that gender is not a limitation in pursuing a successful career in the male-dominated cybersecurity industry. Fola actively promotes the inclusion of women, sharing her knowledge and experiences to motivate them to embrace their skills and passions in this exciting domain. Her journey and positive impact serve as inspiration for other women to believe in themselves, overcome challenges, and make their mark in cybersecurity.

Other Projects and Activities

In addition to her work at Winfinite Consulting, Fola is currently focused on automating processes to enhance efficiency as the company continues to grow. For example, she is implementing a Learning Management System to streamline onboarding.

Fola Winfinite Consulting

Enjoying the Journey

Fola finds great joy in meeting new people, learning new things, and keeping up with evolving threats and risks. The combination of fulfillment and excitement that her work brings is a constant source of motivation. Guiding individuals with no prior experience to achieve their goals in cybersecurity, witnessing their transformation.

Empowering Change

As a Woman of Rubies, Fola embodies the qualities of strength, resilience, and compassion. She has overcome numerous obstacles throughout her career, displaying unwavering determination and tenacity in carving a successful path. Sarah’s commitment to driving positive change extends beyond her own achievements. As a Career Coach and trainer, she dedicates herself to empowering others, especially women, to succeed in the face of adversity. She firmly believes in the power of diversity and inclusivity, and she actively works towards creating opportunities for underrepresented individuals in the cybersecurity sector.

Inspiring the Next Generation

To young women aspiring to enter the cybersecurity sector, Fola has a powerful message: believe in yourself and embrace your unique strengths and perspectives. She emphasizes the importance of constant learning and challenging oneself in a dynamic industry like cybersecurity. She encourages aspiring professionals to seek mentors and supportive communities that can guide and inspire them on their journey. She firmly believes that every individual has the ability to make a positive impact and contribute to the cybersecurity landscape.

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In Health By

Two Steps To Building Resilience

When life is shaking us up and we’re feeling stressed … it can be tough to feel resilient.

Resilience helps us to deal with the chaos and overwhelm … but how to we create it when we feel like we’re underwater?

The first step is to remove things that are adding unnecessary stress. The second step is to do things that help us feel replenished.

Those two steps won’t get us all the way to full resilience, but they’re a huge huge start.

Remove Extra Stress…

Some stress is inevitable — wishing for a life where we feel zero stress is just going to add more stress.

But if we are flooded with stress, removing some of it can help us to clear the space to create even more resilience. If we don’t remove the extra stress, we’ll never do the things we need to take care of ourselves, or to train our minds to be more resilient.

So removing unnecessary stress is the first step.

Some examples:

  • If you’re drinking a lot, reduce down to 1-2 glasses of wine a night. Zero might be even better for some, but it’s useless to ask someone to quit alcohol when they’re flooded with stress.
  • Similarly, reducing smoking or other narcotics or drugs would be a big help.
  • If you’re working late into the night, creating a stopping point earlier would be a big help, if possible.
  • Cut back on your workload a bit, if you’re able to. Delegate the ones you can. Create a to-do list and prioritize the ones you can’t delegate.
  • Stop saying yes to everything, and take fewer meetings. Don’t be afraid to turn down excess workload as well.
  • If you’re fighting a lot with someone, refrain for a bit. Take a breather and let yourself settle.
  • If you’re watching things or playing games late into the night and getting little sleep, cut back on that.
  • If you’re watching news or reading things online that really get you angry, stop that for awhile.
  • Cut out social media if that gets you anxious.

And so on.

Removing these stressors will help you catch your breath.

…Then replenish yourself.

I don’t mean that you have to take a spa weekend (though that would be great!) … I mean doing little things that help you feel more recharged and settled.

These things fill you up, so that you can better take on the world.

For example:

  • Go for walks out in nature.
  • Create space for reading, having tea, taking a bath, journaling.
  • Talk with someone regularly, in person or over the phone.
  • Take naps.
  • Get better sleep.
  • Take a weekend off.
  • Get some sunshine, if there’s any where you are.
  • Take moments of stillness and deep breathing during your day.

These little things can make a huge difference.

You won’t get all the way to resilience with these two steps — but you’ll have given yourself what you need to take the further steps of shifting your thinking patterns and practicing resilience.

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In Inspiration By

Here are 6 Qualities of a resilient woman

With the current pandemic sweeping the globe, you may be experiencing several tough times, physically, emotionally, or financially (or all the above).

As woman who needs to overcome there are certain traits to hold out on, to see how resilient you are, they are:

Not giving up easily

This is a common trait in a resilient woman. They bounce back from pain and failure. “Resilient people are like trees bending in the wind,” says a professor  at Yale University School of Medicine. “They bounce back.”

You accept

Been resilient means you accept what has happened, you understand that those perfect lives portrayed on Instagram aren’t reality. This isn’t about feeling defeated that you can’t change things. It’s about confronting emotions and trusting that we will bounce back.

You change perspectives

You need to learn how to look at things in different ways. Like I’ve been seeing this one way; let me change to a different way of thinking about it.” For example, if you’ve just lost your job, now may be the perfect time to consider a career change. If the relationship did not work out a better one is on the way, how do I prepare for it ? This helps you get better result from your past failures.

Focus on what you can change

Resilient people focus on what they can change and ignore what they can’t. Ask yourself, “What can I take responsibility for?” “can i change this” if you can you move to change it or otherwise focus on something better. Accepting circumstances that can’t be changed can help you focus on conditions that you can change.

Take advantage of opportunities

A resilient woman is open to opportunities, therefore they recognise one quickly. When you look for opportunities to empower yourself, you’re less likely to feel stuck and helpless.

Ask yourself questions

They ask themselves this question, “Is what I’m doing helping or or making things worse?”  This practice puts you in control of your decision making—turning you into a survivor rather than a victim.

As Dean Becker, the president and CEO of a company that develops and delivers programs about resilience training, puts it, “More than education, more than experience, more than training, a person’s level of resilience will determine who succeeds and who fails. That’s true in the cancer ward, it’s true in the Olympics, and it’s true in the boardroom.” By practicing and learning these habits of resilient people, you’ll be able to adapt to any life-changing situation and emerge stronger than before.

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