Guest piece written by Berlin Geekette Chandra Arthur.
My Grandma used to say, “How can you know where you’re going if you don’t know where you’ve been?” She mainly referred to that in a more historical sense, but as the end of another year draws to a close, it’s seems only fitting that we all take time to remember the sweet successes, bitter failures, brain farts, delicious sushi and everything else in between. As we all get closer to accomplishing that next big goal why not acknowledge that where we are today is not where we were just one short year ago. And that if we’ve taken just one itty bitty teeny weeny step closer to realizing our dream(s), then we’ve made progress. And progress, no matter how small, is in fact still progress.
This year for me has been a huge learning curve. Entrepreneurship and start-ups wasn’t at all what I thought I would be doing at this point in my life. But upon the realization that my “little project” could and indeed should be classified as a start-up, I realized there was and still is A LOT of work to be done. What’s been most impressive and significant for me this year is networking through organizations like Berlin Geekettes. It’s so enriching and encouraging to be surrounded by so many women who are committed to their respective diverse projects and more importantly, value the role of mentorship in supporting other women. Networking events, discounts on classes and lectures, invitations to startup events or even just the occasional email from one of your very own female role models makes all the difference for me and many times has given me the motivation to push myself to get to the next level. In the last 3 months alone I’ve met so many amazing people through BG and am forever grateful for those opportunities. It never ceases to amaze me how many talented young women and men from all over the place have chosen the path less traveled to uproot, move away and start something new here. Truly, what an act of courage and display of bravery. As the Germans say: “Hut ab!” to all of us! Come rain or shine or snow should I say, we’ve all come a long way and are to be commended for all of our efforts.
That being said it has not and will not necessarily be easy to get that killer promotion or to find that brilliant CTO post launch, or to secure essential funding that is so crucial to the next phase of our amazing, promising idea(s), even in a place like Berlin which has the reputation for being a creative, bustling, startup hub. But whatever happens or doesn’t, remember to keep your head up or the faith (whatever you prefer) and press ahead. Not to be forgotten is also to take a break! Enjoy your family, friends and loved one’s this holiday season and remember the reasons you want to be the best at whatever it is you do. 2012 has been really good. But I have the feeling that 2013 will be even better. Happy Holidays everyone and see you next year!
Lots of love and hugs,
Chandra from theBABYSITTERSclub
