Embrace the Discomfort 

The importance of continuous learning is undeniable as we navigate and grow our careers. However, let's acknowledge that learning new things can be downright torturous. It often involves stepping outside our comfort zones, encountering setbacks, and grappling with feelings of inadequacy.

At TEECOM, vulnerability is the cornerstone of growth. Remember, it's okay to have only some of the answers, stumble, and make mistakes. In those moments of failure, we learn the most valuable lessons.

Embrace Failure, Openness, and Feedback

TEECOM is a safe place to fail and learn new things. We encourage you to take risks, experiment, and push your boundaries. But remember, failure is only productive when coupled with openness and a willingness to learn from feedback.

I want to address something I've noticed. Sometimes, when I (or another EVP) provide feedback, particularly on documentation, it can be misinterpreted as a personal critique. That's not the intent at all. At TEECOM, feedback intends to be constructive and collaborative regardless of who it comes from.

Constructive feedback, both from ourselves and others, is not just a tool for improvement, it's a key to unlocking your potential. It helps us identify our blind spots, refine our skills, and ultimately achieve mastery. We are fostering a culture where feedback is not feared but embraced as a catalyst for growth. Recently, our managers have embarked on training to provide quality and actionable feedback. At TEECOM, we want each feedback to be a step towards your personal and professional development. No matter if you receive feedback from me, an EVP, or any other team member.

Practice Makes Perfect

Think of TEECOM as your training ground for mastering those challenging communication tasks. The supportive environment we've cultivated allows us to practice and hone our skills without fearing judgment. By tackling these challenges internally, we build the confidence and expertise to excel externally with our clients and project team members. Remember, the more you practice here, the more prepared you are to shine out there.

Remember:

- Learning is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate every step of the way, even the missteps.

- Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. It takes courage to admit our shortcomings and seek help.

- Feedback is a gift, not a criticism. Use it to fuel your career growth and development.

- Practice is a process, not a performance. You must practice tasks you're not good at to become better.

Together, we can achieve great things. Let's continue to push ourselves, support each other, and celebrate the power of continuous learning. The moments of discomfort represent growth opportunities. Embrace the discomfort. 

David Marks

President & CEO 

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