• This past year has been bumpy with several ups and downs. There’s been a constant feeling of change and uncertainty, which is uncomfortable (and sometimes painful) for all of us. We’ve seen multiple reorganizations and changes in leadership and strategy. It's hard to get moved around and/or watch others get moved around and not feel sometimes feel like a pawn or cog. I think we’re headed in the right direction (I wouldn’t stay if I didn’t), but the dust hasn’t quite settled yet so that feeling of uncertainty persists. I realize that some of this is just the present state of the economy and the general environment at many companies, but I hope it changes soon. The positive side of this is having a leadership team that I truly trust to thoughtfully do what is best. I know they'll continue to be transparent about what we're facing and how we're going to tackle it. • Ever since COVID happened, I haven’t felt as connected to my team (and I was remote before COVID hit). We’re more remote friendly and distributed than ever, and I’m grateful for that. However, it has come with some disconnection from the team as we haven’t been able to do many face-to-face meetings or activities in a few years. That’s a reality in almost all remote companies, especially in the present environment of budget cuts, but I do miss feeling a stronger sense of connection. • Work/life balance can be difficult to achieve depending on your department and manager. It’s generally supported but it’s up to you to fight for it and make it happen in many cases.
