Mahlatse Danny Masola
Networking- One-page Reflection
I am continuously working on my networking abilities by looking through the HSS content (including 21st-century skills, discussion forums, and actively engaging after class) which has shown me that networking does not have to be difficult, awkward, or discouraging. I now understand that I must approach networking in the same way that I would approach a conversation with a favourite relative I haven’t seen in years. While I initially thought I might be interested in their professional life at the beginning of the year, I now realize that I am more interested in who they are as people and how their lives have progressed. We students have social skills that can be fully utilized if given the appropriate opportunities and guidance. Networking skills were my number one priority as I have realized that it is my final year and I need to have a proficient level in this skill.
My biggest takeaway from the networking competency is to take the work out of networking enjoy connecting with others and see where those connections take you.
I now know that when looking for jobs and internships, knowing the right people gives me a huge advantage (whereas previously I thought just applying was sufficient). My networking report for the year required me to connect with professional personnel, classmates and people in my degree and learn something from meeting them. In doing so, I discovered that most people are eager to assist. After all, a relationship between two people is usually beneficial to both parties. I also discovered that connections can be made at any time and from any location. Simply striking up a conversation with someone at a presentation could land me my next job. While working on my networking skills, I realized that such interactions necessitate confidence and strong social skills. Another thing I discovered was the value of asking the right questions. As I reflect on my report, I realize that the questions I posed during the conversation could have been answered with a simple Google search on the person's social media account. I should ask questions about what I can learn from this specific individual's experience and expertise. This competency taught me the value of networking and how simple it is to form relationships that will help me in the future. Completing this report taught me that networking is not as difficult as it first appeared and me choosing it as a challenge at the beginning of the year was worth it because I always had the idea that networking is very difficult, and I had no idea where to start. Making connections is simple and can happen at any time. To build a strong personal or academic network, it is necessary to develop strong social skills and to be comfortable speaking with influential people. It can be difficult to say the right thing and ask the right questions. However, as I improve my communication skills, I will be able to gain valuable knowledge from the experience and expertise of others. Because academic networking is so important, I intend to start making more connections now that will help me in the future, even though I managed to accomplish my plans I still need to practice more before I can confidently say that I have networking skills
Self Assertive- One-page Reflection
In my journey through Health System Sciences, I have uncovered the crucial concept of assertiveness and its transformative power in the realm of healthcare. Initially, I viewed myself as reserved and believed that being self-assertive might come off as subjective or overly confident. My introverted nature led me to prefer smaller environments, where I thought keeping quiet was a sign of respect, allowing others the freedom to express themselves.
A major hurdle was the association I made between confidence and arrogance, fearing that expressing my opinions might be perceived as imposing. I grappled with the misconception that assertiveness required being opinionated, loud, and well-liked—traits I didn't think I possessed. I often let others dominate discussions to make them feel comfortable, sacrificing my own voice in the process.
However, as I delved into readings and discussions, my perception shifted. I began to see assertiveness not as opposing views but as providing valuable insights and expanding perspectives. Confidence, I realized, was not arrogance but a belief in my knowledge and abilities. Assertiveness, far from rudeness, became a tool to educate and advance knowledge in the healthcare sector.
Psychology Today's insights highlighted that assertive individuals express their wants and set limits without imposing unreasonable demands. I learned that assertiveness is not about dominance but about approaching situations without resorting to violence, even under stress. It became evident that assertive individuals experience fewer worried thoughts and maintain a balanced demeanour, responding to both positive and negative emotions without aggression.
From a post-personal development perspective, I now recognize that my initial perception of self-assertiveness was clouded by negativity and fear. In the field of health advocacy, where innovation is key, the ability to assert oneself is crucial for introducing effective service delivery and managing health systems. Confidence, as I now understand it, is not about holding back but about expressing feelings, opinions, and beliefs to drive real-life advancements.
This journey has brought me closer to my goal of becoming a confident individual by acknowledging my weaknesses and learning how to address them. The evolving understanding of assertiveness has become a catalyst for my growth, paving the way for a more impactful role in the complex landscape of healthcare
Decisiveness- One-page Reflection
Realizing my struggle with decisiveness has been a pivotal moment in my personal and professional growth. While some decisions come naturally, I've often found myself avoiding others, recognizing that this hesitancy could hinder efficiency and undermine my self-assurance. As I aspire to leadership roles, the importance of decisiveness becomes apparent—showcasing capability and confidence, traits that inspire trust in those around me.
I've come to understand that decision-making is not merely a theoretical skill acquired through reading and research. It demands practice, confidence, and the willingness to stand by choices without succumbing to doubt. The anxiety associated with making the right decisions is a challenge I'm actively addressing, acknowledging that perfectionism can paralyze action.
Exploring resources like the tutorial on decision analysis by Bikey Bonn Kleiford Seranilla and TEDxGraz's "The Power of Decision Making" has broadened my perspective. Decision-making under uncertainty, a common scenario in the healthcare system, requires a nuanced approach. Embracing imperfection, understanding the limited weight of decisions in the grand scheme of success, stepping out of my comfort zone, and managing my emotions are key lessons I've gleaned.
Before this personal development journey, I saw indecisiveness as an ingrained trait. Discovering that it's a skill I can actively improve upon has been enlightening. The video "How To Be Decisive" by clinical psychologist Nick Wignall has been particularly impactful, shifting my attitude toward decision-making from an impossible task to a welcome challenge.
I'm excited about the progress I've already made and am committed to further improvement. Recognizing that decisive decision-making is a journey, not a destination, I am cultivating the skills necessary to become a stronger leader, systems thinker, and responsive decision-maker. I believe enhancing this ability will not only lead to quicker and better ideas but also foster creative thinking, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the complex healthcare system.
Ultimately, this endeavor aligns with my goal of designing effective and innovative solutions for healthcare challenges. By actively addressing uncertainty and considering various scenarios, I aim to contribute to a healthcare system that thrives on adaptability and continuous improvement. The journey to conquering indecision is an ongoing process, and I look forward to embracing the challenges and victories it brings.
Accepting constructive criticism- One-page Reflection
Initially, I harboured a negative view of criticism, perceiving it as a spotlight on my imperfections. The idea of "criticism and positivism" seemed contradictory, leading me to associate it with lowered self-esteem, tension, anger, and passive aggressiveness.
However, my perspective underwent a profound transformation through extensive reading, debates, and learning experiences. I took cues from a TEDEd Student Talk, "Criticism doesn't have to knock you down," which guided me in handling criticism effectively. Key takeaways included making peace with myself, truly listening, responding calmly, and eliminating negative thoughts.
This newfound confidence in responding to criticism allowed me to distinguish between destructive and constructive criticism. I learned to manage my emotions in the face of both types of feedback, fostering personal growth.
Post personal development, my initial opinion on criticism appears clouded, skewed, and unrealistic. I embraced the realization that perfection is unattainable and that constructive criticism serves as a pathway for personal advancement. Accepting criticism, though challenging, offers valuable insights into oneself and provides opportunities to turn critics into satisfied clients or audience members.
I now appreciate the advantages of criticism:
1. Communication:** Criticism serves as a form of communication, offering insights into the perspectives of others and opportunities to win them over as allies.
2. Product Improvement:** Honest feedback helps strengthen products or services by highlighting areas for improvement. While uncomfortable, using this knowledge enhances the end product.
3. Reflection on Work Habits:** Constructive criticism prompts a thoughtful examination of work habits, aiding in the identification and correction of problematic patterns. Maintaining objectivity is crucial, allowing for a more comprehensive and effective approach to projects.
In embracing criticism as a tool for growth and enhancement, I've learned to view it as an integral part of personal and professional development, guiding me towards continuous improvement.