Article by Julie Chadwick, Director of People, Operations and UK Companies.
Over the past week, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to India for a business trip, and I must say, it was far more than just a work assignment. As someone who struggles significantly with anxiety, this trip was a huge step for me, I've never travelled alone or with unfamiliar people before. The phrase ‘if it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you’, really became my mantra throughout my journey. What started as a professional endeavour quickly evolved into a journey of personal growth, self-reflection, and invaluable learning.
Embracing the Cultural Experience
One of the most enriching aspects of my trip was experiencing India's vibrant culture. The Navratri festival was being celebrated during my stay, this is a nine-day festival which involves daily prayers, fasting and evening folk dances like Garba (which I attempted and failed!). Each day of the festival is associated with a different colour, symbolising different qualities of goddess Durga, fortunately I didn’t know this prior to my trip otherwise my suitcase would have been a lot heavier than it already was with the different colour options! Kanya Puja is performed on the eighth or ninth day of Navratri to honour young girls as representations of Goddess Durga. Their feet are washed, they are offered food and given gifts. The girls are treated as embodiments of purity and feminine divine energy, symbolizing the goddess’s power, something I would have very much welcomed in the UK when I was growing up! Every interaction, whether with colleagues, business partners, or locals, offered a new perspective that broadened my understanding of both business and life.
Business Insights from a Global Perspective
During my time in India, I had the opportunity to engage in discussions that spanned across a wide range of topics, everything from industry challenges to innovative solutions tailored to local markets. It was great to hear how other practices deliver excellence and have open discussions on the challenges that we face. The exposure to different business practices gave me a fresh outlook on how to approach challenges within my own organisation. I was reminded of the importance of adaptability, flexibility, and cultural sensitivity in the global business environment.
Personal Growth and Reflection
Perhaps the most surprising part of my trip was how much it challenged me on a personal level. Navigating a new environment, stepping out of my comfort zone, and engaging with people from diverse backgrounds allowed me to reflect deeply on my leadership style, communication skills, and overall approach to work. I came away from the experience not only more confident but also more empathetic and open-minded. Now I have overcome the anxiety of travelling to new places I’ll be going all over the place!
Key Takeaways for My Professional Journey
- Adaptability is Key: In today’s global market, being able to adapt to new situations and cultural norms is critical. This trip has taught me that flexibility is essential in navigating diverse business environments.
- Building Genuine Relationships: The importance of building strong, authentic relationships was reinforced during my time in India. Don't worry about what others think, just focus on being yourself. If you're working hard, genuinely interested in people and what they do, and are committed to helping both your company and your close connections succeed, then you're already on the right path. Genuine connections, whether personal or professional, are the cornerstone of any successful venture.
- Continuous Learning: There’s always something new to learn—about your industry, about other cultures, and about yourself. Being open to new experiences is key to both personal and professional growth.
Looking Ahead
This trip to India has left a lasting impression on me, and I’m eager to apply the lessons learned as I continue to grow both personally and professionally. I encourage everyone to step out of their comfort zone, embrace new experiences, and view challenges as opportunities for development.
Has anyone else had a similar experience on a business trip? I’d love to hear your stories and thoughts on personal growth through travel!