A Career is not just that...

Hi Friends.

October has been a tumultuous month, to say the least. The world around us seems to be in a state of constant upheaval, affecting not just our external environment but our internal landscapes as well. When I committed to offering you unfiltered perspectives through this newsletter, I also committed to acknowledging how global events shape our day-to-day lives—both practically and emotionally. We've all been touched by grief and loss in some form, and it's a collective experience that binds us.

During these challenging times, I hope you're finding ways to care for yourself and your loved ones. The road ahead may be uncertain, but it's the small acts of kindness and moments of connection that will sustain us until brighter days return.

October has been a month of reflection, marking my 5-year journey at Microsoft. A time of immense growth and learning, and I’ve distilled 5 takeaways that'll always top off my endless list of lessons.

Because let's face it: A career is more than just a job👇🏽

✨ People...
People change your work, your life & your life at work,
People open your mind,
People challenge your beliefs,
People make you believe in yourself and in bigger dreams,
When coming together, you achieve incredible things with people.

👉🏽 Be intentional in your encounters and watch the magic unfold.

✨ Be Bold...
Bold with your initiatives & suggestions,
Bold with trying new things,

👉🏽 By being bold, you give the permission to someone else to be so too.

✨ Vulnerability is powerful...
Vulnerability emphasizes your authenticity,
Vulnerability builds connections,
Vulnerability leads to opportunities you never thought possible,

👉🏽 When we allow space for vulnerability, relationships become meaningful, people feel connected, trust grows.

✨ Leadership is not in the title...
You don't need a title to lead,
And not every "lead" is a leader,

👉🏽 Leadership is an intention, a skill you lean into fine tuning,creating opportunities from it and to impact others positively.

✨ Listening is a special power...
Listening to feedback from a place of growth mindset,
Listening to people's stories,
Listening to your intuition and instincts as you grow in your career and life,
Listening challenges your thinking,

👉🏽 When you listen (not "hear"), you not only learn about others, but also about yourself. Watch how it transforms your interactions and impact.

Mantra of the moment ✨

Make sure you subscribe if you’re not already👇🏽 for more perspectives on technology, personal and professional growth

Stay Curious, Stay Unique & Dive into what moves you!
Until the next edition✌🏽

Oumaima Talouka