Ashley Bussell’s Post

Do Titles and Accolades Really Matter???? I’ve been reflecting on this after seeing various discussions and wanted to share from my own lived experience as a visible Muslim, Middle Eastern woman of color: YES, they matter. Titles and certifications aren’t just pieces of paper— the have been proof to others of my skills, my grit, and, sadly sometimes, my worth. For my family and many people of color, striving for educational and professional success wasn't just a lofty goal—it was about survival and building a life that our ancestors could only dream of. I acknowledge that this focus on titles carries its own pressures and challenges. I've noticed that the people who often dismiss the importance of titles are either those who have already collected plenty or those who’ve had opportunities handed to them due to their privilege. For me, every certificate, every title I’ve earned, has opened doors, allowing me to prove myself in places that might not otherwise take a second look. Now, at a mid-stage in my career, I can afford to be pickier about where I work, aligning more with organizations that share my values and provide me balance. But getting here involved "getting the experience, titles, accolades” to earn and even be considered for opportunities. I'm curious—what about you and YOUR lived experience? Have titles and accolades shaped your path? Have they opened doors, or do they just seem like more hoops to jump through?

Winding up this year with…. Yeah, the words belled your ears properly. For me, this year was like a flash, passed in a trice, but this stroke was a watershed in my life which taught me a lot of small, but epoch-making lessons accompanied with many changes in myself. · From an Introvert (A person lost in his own.)               To an Extrovert (A person ready to greet and welcome others.) · From a Scholar (A person indulged in studies every time)               To Non-scholastic (A person who always looks for extra opportunities.) · From an Ordinary (A risk-averse person)               To an Inquisitive (A person excited to explore new areas.) · From a Topper (Apparently intelligent without any competitor.)               To a Competitor (A competitor and continuous learner.) · From an Extrospective (A person who compares with others.)               To an Introspective (A person who judges himself standing before mirror.) All thanks to SRCC for such a competitive environment and peer pressure which is honing me sharper and sharper every day. I resolute to keep this spirit high. A very Happy New Year to all. Post your experience and resolution in the comments.

Before accepting any quarterly commission at work, take the time to thoroughly evaluate your contributions. Reflect on your achievements, the skills you've acquired, and the ways in which you've grown professionally. This self-assessment will provide valuable insights into your progress and help ensure continuous improvement.

In I have got award as Best student award in period of 2022 - 2023

our new programme starts next week

My True Award: A Journey of Self-Recognition Hello, As I put pen to paper today, I am reminded of the countless nights I spent gazing at empty walls, yearning for the weight of an award to hang proudly upon them. For years, I toiled tirelessly, fueled by the hope that one day, my efforts would be acknowledged with a tangible symbol of recognition. Yet, as the years passed and the accolades remained elusive, doubt crept in. Through the trials of childhood, navigating the uncertainties of adolescence, and the challenges of adulthood, I questioned my worth. I wondered if I would ever ascend to the heights of success I envisioned. In the depths of my despair, I came to a profound realization: the true award was not something external to be bestowed upon me by others, but rather, it resided within myself. It was the culmination of every battle fought, every obstacle overcome, and every lesson learned. From the earliest moments of my existence, I have been a beacon of resilience and determination. Though my efforts may have gone unnoticed by the world, they have not been in vain. For I am a testament to the power of perseverance, the embodiment of success in its purest form. With this newfound understanding, I no longer seek validation from external sources. I am my own measure of worth, my own standard of excellence. No plaque or trophy could ever compare to the strength and resilience that courses through my veins. Today, I stand before you not as a recipient of accolades, but as a victor in the game of life. I have weathered storms and scaled mountains, emerging stronger and more resilient with each passing day. I am unstoppable, unbreakable, and unyielding in my pursuit of greatness. So let us celebrate not the absence of external recognition, but rather, the presence of an indomitable spirit that refuses to be defined by the limitations of others. I am the award, the highest honor bestowed upon myself, and no one can take that away from me. Thank you. #MyTrueAward #SelfRecognitionJourney #InnerStrength #EmbraceYourWorth #SelfValidation #BeYourOwnAward

Our Forty Under 40 program honors young professionals in the Des Moines metro who dedicate themselves to their careers and communities. The honorees are selected each year by those who have received the honor in the past. Kim Butler Hegedus, a member of our 2001 Forty Under 40 class and our 2023 Forty Under 40 Alum of the Year, is one of our many alumni who help with judging. She says: "Over the years, this process has become increasingly competitive. ... When I am judging a nominee, I look for effort and quality of the submission. Did they take time to be thoughtful about their career success and how they are advancing themselves and their organization in a meaningful way? Career success is only one factor. How are they balancing professional achievement with community involvement? Did they take time to seek out individuals to give them a solid recommendation? These young professionals are our future leaders and critical to the health of our business community and vibrancy of our community." Here, Butler Hegedus spends time with her grandchildren, Jordyn (9) and Brady (5), at a Central College football game. Central is her alma mater, and her oldest son is on the coaching staff. Nominations for our 25th class of Forty Under 40 open in December. Learn more at https://lnkd.in/gPXr7AWm.

The definition of achievement will vary depending on who you ask, but to me, it's the result of tiny, almost imperceptible wins accumulated through consistency and being present. Maintaining employment is the bare minimum required to participate and survive in modern society, however I don't think we should let that detract from the achievement it is and what it ultimately represents; the consistent, concerted result of showing up every damn day and doing your best, whatever it looks like that day. Some people will scoff at this definition and laugh it off as an overly optimistic attempt to present myself an attendance award, itself a shorthand for skepticism pointed towards anyone perceived as putting in less than the maximum effort at all times. To that I would argue anything of value is defined by the processes that build the framework for it to exist, and the most essential holistic ingredient of any process is SHOWING UP. Some people will always talk down your victories and smother your ability to be proud of yourself, don't let them. I'm proud of even my tiniest victories, including this one.

Prepare for the new year and book our virtual conference, 'Ensuring Success in the Best Career in the World'! 🧑🏫 This course is designed for ECTs in year 1 of their induction period to develop their practice. https://ow.ly/rgV950QcP1A

Ever hesitated to speak up, only to see someone else get the credit? 😔 Let's talk about acknowledging every student's contributions. It's not always easy to feel seen and heard in a world where some voices seem to be louder than others.🤫 As a result, many quiet students often get overlooked, and that can be disheartening. But I want you to know that you're not alone in feeling this way.😎 It's time we challenge the idea that we must always present ourselves outwardly to be recognized.🎉 Every student is unique and has something valuable to contribute, whether they speak up or lead quietly. I strongly believe that true recognition embraces diversity in expression, and that's what we should strive for. We must create an environment where every student feels seen and valued, where every voice is heard and celebrated. I understand that it's not always easy to feel empowered to contribute, but together, we can make a difference. By recognizing and appreciating every student's diverse talents and efforts, we can create spaces where everyone feels empowered to reach their full potential. If you found this perspective helpful, please share your thoughts in the comments.👋🏻👋🏻