Monday, July 19, 2010

Tell Me... Show Me... Involve Me...

Every now and then you come across people who changes your life completely... I have always been hungry for knowledge, the same way I have always been fascinated by people who are such great teachers.

I remember when I was in college, I was asked by my professor to name a person that I admire the most. I had to pause for a few seconds and think of a person who has inspired me in such a life changing way. I couldn't think of anyone. How sad is that??? I don't know if my epxectations were just too high or I am just plain apathetic on what's going on around me.

About a few weeks ago, while I was in a talent planning meeting in our Market Office, we were asked what best describes a great leader. And instantly I said, he or she ought to be inspiring. I then talked about my very first Branch Manager. I have always been vocal about the fact that if not for her, I wouldn't be where I am now. She was the one who challenged me to prove what I am capable of doing and even after I have mastered my skill, she never stopped pushing me to become better. Everyday was another day to learn new things. It never felt like a routine. Everyday, I wake up excited to go to work because I look forward to what my teacher has for me.

And now, here I am. Still the same person who is hungry for knowledge. But there's no one there to teach me. Instead, I am now tasked to pass on my knowledge. But how much do I know? And how much can I share? Am I even qualified to be a teacher? This is the struggle I have to face every morning when I walk through the doors of my branch. No one knows it, no one sees it... that it kills me, each time that they take a piece me, when there's no one to add to the little that I have. I could only do so much. And I don't know everything. As the days go by, I slowly become obsolete. And that's the worse feeling ever... when you feel like you are no longer needed.