Its been exactly three months since I first landed in Patna. So, what's changed?
I've realized over time how impatient I've been with people, processes and the systems around me. As I look back, I distinctly remember my first monthly management meeting. I remember voicing my concern about several changes I deemed integral to the organization's success. At the time, experienced managers politely told me - we just weren't ready for them yet. Last week, many of the same changes transitioned from the wish list and made it on to the essential list.
Similarly, our roles as fellows have transitioned significantly. We have slowly integrated ourselves as part of the team. Investees are no longer referred to by name instead as I noticed on our latest Global Fellows call, all the fellows were using the words "we, us, our" when referring to their projects or teams. A transition accomplished through patience and perseverance despite cultural, physical and mental barriers.
Personally, I've learnt to cope and find comfort in my surroundings. The hard wooden plank I call a bed no longer phases me; I am no longer phased by seeing my coworkers the minute I wake up; I now automatically pause for 10 seconds after speaking into my computer because of the Skype lag; I have developed a system to keep the swarms of mosquitoes at bay; I have scheduled down time in my evenings when I know internet won't cooperate; I even have my own rickshaw guy who rides a special low rise rickshaw convenient for baggage and shorties like me!
I have become more patient with myself and others; Patience and acceptance are integral to building personal credibility and making even the smallest contribution in this community. I'm glad to have 6 more months to grow.
I've realized over time how impatient I've been with people, processes and the systems around me. As I look back, I distinctly remember my first monthly management meeting. I remember voicing my concern about several changes I deemed integral to the organization's success. At the time, experienced managers politely told me - we just weren't ready for them yet. Last week, many of the same changes transitioned from the wish list and made it on to the essential list.
Similarly, our roles as fellows have transitioned significantly. We have slowly integrated ourselves as part of the team. Investees are no longer referred to by name instead as I noticed on our latest Global Fellows call, all the fellows were using the words "we, us, our" when referring to their projects or teams. A transition accomplished through patience and perseverance despite cultural, physical and mental barriers.
Personally, I've learnt to cope and find comfort in my surroundings. The hard wooden plank I call a bed no longer phases me; I am no longer phased by seeing my coworkers the minute I wake up; I now automatically pause for 10 seconds after speaking into my computer because of the Skype lag; I have developed a system to keep the swarms of mosquitoes at bay; I have scheduled down time in my evenings when I know internet won't cooperate; I even have my own rickshaw guy who rides a special low rise rickshaw convenient for baggage and shorties like me!
I have become more patient with myself and others; Patience and acceptance are integral to building personal credibility and making even the smallest contribution in this community. I'm glad to have 6 more months to grow.
