Newsletter
Step out of your comfort zone and embrace the winds of change. Discover how this transformative journey can lead to personal growth, new adventures, and a better version of yourself.
The Constant of Change
Change is constant in life. It is often said that the only thing that does not change is the fact that everything changes. It is a fact we all know, yet we often resist it, fearing the unknown and the discomfort that comes with it. Embracing change, especially when it comes to our careers, can be an overwhelming task. Nevertheless, I have learned that change is not just inevitable, but it is also the only way to grow.
The Limits of Safety
Before the MSCA fellowship, I found myself in a comfortable position. I was doing well, but I felt stagnant. For a while, I was not learning anything new, and no challenge excited me. I realized that I was in a comfort zone, and while it was safe and secure, it was also limiting my growth.
A Leap into the Unknown
I took on a new project that was entirely out of my comfort zone. This opportunity was a significant change for me, both professionally and personally. It meant leaving my comfort zone, moving to a new country, and immersing myself in a completely different research environment. The prospect was both exciting and terrifying.
Adapting and Growing
The initial days were challenging. I had to adapt to a new working culture and navigate a different academic landscape. I was filled with self-doubt and fear. However, I was determined to make the most of this opportunity. I embraced the change, and with each passing day, I found myself growing - learning new things, meeting new people, and gaining a fresh perspective on my research.
Overcoming Doubts
The journey was not easy. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and questioned my decision. But each time, I reminded myself why I had embarked on this journey in the first place - to grow, to learn, and to make a difference in every way I could. I embraced the change, and with it, the challenges and opportunities that came my way. I learned new skills, met new people, and faced challenges that I never thought I could overcome. And it definitely did make a difference.
Broadening Horizons
Being an MSCA fellow allowed me to become a member of the MCAA. This platform allowed me to connect with other researchers and professionals from different parts of the world. The exchange of ideas, knowledge, and experiences was enriching. It broadened my horizons and gave me a global perspective of the way things function. It was a period of intense learning and growth.
Where I Stand Today
Today, I am in a place in my career of which I am proud. I have grown as a researcher and as a person in general. I have contributed to my field, made meaningful connections, and gained invaluable experiences. And all of this has been possible because I chose to embrace change. It was not comfortable, but it was worth it.
The Power of Embracing Change
Looking back, I can say with certainty that being an MSCA fellow and a member of the MCAA has been a transformative experience. It has taught me that change, while scary, is also an opportunity— to learn, to grow, and to become a better version of ourselves. So, I encourage you, whether you are at the beginning of your career or well into it, to embrace change because change is the only way to grow.
Take Home Message
Go make a difference in the world. Do not fear it. Learn new things, meet new people, and experience new adventures. It is the only way to become a better version of yourself. Always remember: growth and comfort do not coexist. So, step out of your comfort zone, embrace change, and see how it leads you to growth.
Samira Smajlovic
Editorial Board Member, MCAA Newsletter
samiras09@hotmail.com
Twitter: @SmajlovicSamira