Things I Learnt In 2008

This past year has been a big one for me. Several major aspects of my life changed in 2008, most of them of my own choosing. Life teaches us valuable lessons and here are a few of the most important ones I learnt in 2008:

1. Your 'dream job' might suck

For years, my 'dream job' was a role at a Borders bookstore. Early last year, I scored myself a part time role in my local store. What I expected to be a dream role turned into a whole lot of hard work with little pay-off. It may have been working in a bookshop, but it was still a retail role and I never realised - retail is a pain! Therefore, don't assume that what looks like a 'dream role' is any better than your current job. It might actually be worse.

2. Outsourcing can be great, if done right

I work for an outsourcing company. In my role, I get a unique perspective on the merits and pitfalls of outsourcing aspects of your business to another company. I can honestly say - outsourcing can be a good thing, but it can also be a very bad thing. Haphazardly outsourcing departments is bad, a company must be smart about the things they outsource. I'm reminded of Qantas - as soon as they outsourced their maintenance, their resplendent safety record was muddied by numerous incidents.

3. You really should listen to other people, particularly your mother

For years, my mum has told me that I should see a naturopath. I have been in poor health for quite a while, but I dismissed her suggestion of seeking natural therapy. Recently, I discovered I have food intolerances. Had I gone to a naturopath, those intolerances would have been discovered, potentially sparing me years of feeling seedy.

Happy New Year everyone!