Post #5 - This week was MY turning point

I am always open to learning and growing, and this is why I have a lot of appreciation for this volatile process, as is the nature of ALL startups.

Our guests sharing their stories and experiences are a strong affirmation, that things are going ok, taking quite a normal and expected course that all startups take. You just have to recognize the need for change, and act upon it rather that ignore it, and I'm happy that this week was all about that. We also learned that from the Steve Blank videos: [link to udacity.com]

I was thankful for this week's exercise, where we examined real-case senario's in which we reviewed what we would do if we were to start Nova back home straight away. It was a way to take a step back and see things from an outer perspective, and also reaffirm that we, as individuals were selected to take on this program for a reason: because we can actually do this. We have a contributing role here and it didn't come from scratch.

At some point earlier on, goals were getting a little blurry, and motivation was at a low. This exercise was a huge turning point for me, as were several other activities this week for all of us. Over this week, we reestablished our ownership to the startup program and our roles here. We also identified our key strengths and decided were we would see ourselves most for when it comes to backgrounds and contribution to the process.

I would like to thank my Toolbox team for tolerating my lack of attentiveness this week, especially on Wednesday onwards as I had some work of my own that was draining my energy even when I was present. Thank you Rucha, Aaron, Artur, Ilya!

Thanks Aaron for covering for me on Sunny Fridays. Per, when you asked me if I had asked someone to cover for me, I had already discussed it with Aaron, but totally forgot at the time you asked me because 3-hours of sleep and no coffee (I was fasting!) doesn't coordinate well with my memory capabilities, or analytical capabilities much, come to think of it!

Next week, Inna and I are coordinating to have Google Hangouts with Startup Grinders, 3 at a time over 4 meetups. I'm excited to hear from them!

Speaking of our team, I am happy not just with the group dynamic, but after 3 weeks, I'm starting to appreciate my individual relationships with each member. That helps a lot. I am a person that connects emotionally with my work and it helps me grow and supports me to know that I can count on my friends for advice, support, a second opinion, or a hug!

Here's to an even more productive week!

Xx,
Aisha