Reflections on 30 Years in Industry: Embracing Tradition and Innovation

Is Your Career a Journey or Just Job Titles?

Picture this: you’re sitting over a cup of coffee, sharing stories about your career journey with a friend. Are those tales filled with excitement and learning, or do they sound more like a laundry list of job titles? For me, the past 30 years have been anything but monotonous. It’s been an evolving adventure that’s transformed not just my toolkit but also the way I approach work.

When I first stepped into the professional world, I was a shopfloor industrial engineer at General Motors. Armed with a trusty notebook, a clipboard, and a stopwatch, I felt ready to tackle the complexities of manufacturing. Back then, we were dissecting *The Goal* and grappling with the challenges of Lean processes. Can you imagine? Topics like Lean thinking were almost whispered about, and Toyota’s techniques raised more than a few eyebrows!

From Notebooks to Digital Tools

Fast forward to today, and what a difference three decades make! My career has evolved from quite the hands-on experience to a multifaceted landscape. Now, I find myself as a consultant, speaker, author, and podcaster. The toolkit I once relied on has blossomed into a blend of traditional and modern tools.

Of course, I’ve made some upgrades along the way. My pager has long since been retired and replaced by the marvel that is the smartphone. Yet, it’s the old favourites that remind me of where I started. Those vibrant whiteboard markers and sticky notes? They still help in bringing ideas to life and turning concepts into actionable plans. Some things may change, but the fundamentals often remain the same.

Adapting to Changes in the Industry

As I’ve navigated through different roles, I’ve witnessed immense change in our industry. Technology has drastically reshaped the landscape, and being adaptable is more crucial than ever. Have you also experienced this within your career? Whether through embracing new software or adjusting to remote work, change is a given in today’s fast-paced world.

But here’s my twist – while I adore the convenience of digital tools, there’s something nostalgic and fulfilling about the tactile feel of pen on paper. It reminds me of the days when brainstorming took place surrounded by friends and colleagues in a room filled with ideas, laughter, and those ever-present sticky notes.

What Makes a Toolkit Effective?

You might be wondering, what makes an effective toolkit in this ever-evolving landscape? It’s not just about selecting the latest gadgets or software. It’s about a combination of both old and new that best fits your style and needs. So, as you reflect on your own journey, consider what has worked for you.

• Do you prefer the clarity of writing things down or the convenience of typing?
• Have your collaborative techniques changed with the times?
• How often do you rely on your network for insights versus online resources?

It’s these considerations that can elevate your work and make your toolkit truly effective. Personalising your approach adds a layer of authenticity that technology alone cannot replicate.

Your Career: An Evolving Narrative

Your career is more than just a series of jobs. It’s a narrative filled with twists, turns, and moments of revelation. What have you discovered about yourself along the way? What tools and practices have served you well, and which ones are ready for retirement? The beauty of this journey lies in embracing both the past and the future.

As I reflect on my own evolution, I realise how crucial it is to adapt while also honouring my roots. Maybe an action figure for my healthcare work would feature scrubs, symbolising the teamwork and innovation that drives us forward. Taking a step back, I ask – how has your toolkit changed over the years? Have you let go of old favourites or embraced new ways of thinking?

Engage with Your Journey

As we sip our coffee and share our stories, let’s remember that our careers are ongoing voyages. Whether you’re still holding onto your favourite tools or embracing the latest digital advancements, each step we take shapes our unique journey. I’d love to hear your thoughts. What’s been your biggest revelation in your career? How do you balance the old with the new?

Let’s start a conversation!