🌀 Navigating Chaos
Yesterday, while sitting in an OR waiting room as my dad underwent stomach surgery, I had time to reflect on the intense past few months. Balancing the demands of starting a new business with the overwhelming challenges of personal crises has been a true test of resilience. My dad's ongoing battle with cancer, my mom's knee and back issues, being an Uber (I mean being there) for my teenage daughter, checking in on my uncle, who is recovering from a broken neck, and being a support system for my wife and her family as she deals with her father's declining health have all pulled me in multiple directions. I'm not seeking sympathy; rather, I'm sharing this to let others know that although risks and chaos are inevitable, we can choose how we navigate them. As I waited for my dad, it struck me how closely the lessons I've learned mirror the principles we uphold in internal audit, risk, and compliance.
🤸♂️ Embrace Flexibility
In our professions, we often talk about the importance of adaptability. Over these past few months, I’ve seen firsthand how plans can change in an instant, both in life and in business. Just as we pivot in response to emerging risks, I’ve had to constantly adjust my priorities, delegating tasks and shifting focus to manage the pressing needs of my family while keeping my business moving forward.
💆 Prioritize Self-Care
As professionals, we understand the significance of a strong control environment, but how often do we apply that to ourselves? In these trying times, I've realized the critical need to prioritize self-care. It’s easy to get lost in the demands of work and personal crises, but maintaining your health and well-being is essential to sustain your effectiveness. Whether it’s a quick walk, a moment of meditation, or simply ensuring you get enough sleep, these small acts of self-care are vital.
👪 Leverage Support Networks
In my journey, I’ve leaned heavily on my support network—family and friends—much like how we rely on a robust compliance framework. The encouragement, advice, and shared responsibilities have been invaluable. Don’t hesitate to reach out to those around you; support networks are there for a reason.
📂 Stay Organized
Chaos can easily lead to confusion, underscoring the importance of maintaining organization. Calendars, to-do lists, GRC software, and AI are some of the resources we often use at work. For me, good old pen and paper as well as AI-driven apps have helped me keep track of important chores and deadlines, thereby making sure nothing slips through the cracks when life feels overwhelming.
👁️ Maintain Perspective
As I sat in that waiting room, I was reminded of the importance of perspective. In our field, we strive to bring clarity in uncertain environments, and that same mindset can be applied to life. Focus on what you can control and try to let go of the rest. This mindset has helped me manage the stress and uncertainty of the past few months.
🗣️ Communicate Transparently
Transparency is another cornerstone of our profession that has been crucial in my personal life. Open and honest communication with my family and network about my situation has fostered understanding and support, allowing me to navigate this challenging time without compromising my commitments. Remember, if you don’t express yourself, others won’t know what you’re going through or what you need.
🙌 Find Strength in Purpose and resilience
Ultimately, finding strength in purpose has been my anchor. The past few months have tested my resilience, but they’ve also reinforced why I’m passionate about what I do. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth, both personally and professionally. Embracing these experiences has deepened my commitment to making a positive impact in our field.
Managing through chaos is never easy, but by applying the principles we live by in our professional lives—flexibility, organization, communication, and support— we may not only survive but thrive even in the most difficult situations. If you’re navigating your own storm, know that you’re not alone. Together, we can weather the chaos and emerge stronger. As I like to say, Share Wisdom Together!
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