By Kelly Knight, 2014 DC/SLA Leadership Summit Stipend Award Winner
My theme and mantra, especially in this chapter of my life, is being present. The steps to being present are simple: say “yes” and show up. This sounds easy, but sometimes it’s not! (At least for myself and my fellow introverts out there.)
We’re all busy, I know this. I currently attend class twice a week while working full-time and it can be difficult for me to engage in extra-curricular or professional activities while balancing a social and family life *and* getting sleep!
But I tell myself to just be present. Commit to what I’ve committed to, and I certainly reap the benefits.
I show up and become an observer, who is starting trying to learn how to run a meeting or program efficiently. I listen and learn about innovative projects that relate to my own work in a library, or ones that serve as excellent examples for discussions in class. I understand that yes, it’s possible, for your ideas to be put into action.
I have had such an enriching experience working with our student chapter and attending DC/SLA events. I’ve been in the graduate school for two years and it has supplemented my education so much I couldn’t imagine my future without it.
As hard as it may be sometimes, setting small simple goals like showing up and being present can really make a difference.