Rhonda Vetere is a Global Technology Executive. She’s served as the Chief Information and Technology Officer at Estee Lauder, and has contributed her knowledge to institutions like the US Olympics and Paralympics, George Mason University School of Business, SWAAY Magazine, Miss Fashion Week and more. Rhonda likes to play golf, and encourages her friends and associates to pursue active, healthy lifestyles as an integral part of career success and improving performance.
“Ask Rhonda” is a monthly column where Rhonda will answer all your burning questions about starting your own venture, moving up the career ladder and more! In today’s column, we discuss what Rhonda learned in 2018!
Big things to come for 2019!
Looking back at 2018, it was one of the most incredible years so far. So much has happened, and reflection is key to ensuring that I set myself up for success this year and learning from any areas that I can improve upon. A new year is a chance for me to reflect on the year gone by and to approach 2019 ahead with intention and purpose.
Everything—from pushing the physical limits and running 55-miles through uneven terrain and alongside the animals in Africa, to speaking to the young girls there about empowerment, to starting a new position and finishing my second book—has made 2018 a very incredible year.
In looking forward to 2019, there's lots to be excited about! I took on a new position which has been all-encompassing; the demands and balancing it all. I also set out on a journey to truly share my heart around the world.
My book is something that I am so proud of and excited about as a way to connect with others and give them more insight into my journey and lessons learned. What are you doing to start the year off right? What can you do to move the compass?
In my book, Grit & Grind, I go into additional details and reflection on how to achieve your dreams.
For me, training is a KEY aspect of life that keeps me grounded. I plan all of my races a year out and find that it is an excellent way for me to operate. I make much better decisions every time I am active, and that silent time to myself helps me handle stress and also boosts my energy.
When I work out, I don’t keep my phone with me, and I don’t listen to music. I love to hear the birds chirping when I run outside. I love to take in the culture every time I’m traveling. I have a universal team, work 24/7, and am in technology. Hence, I’m naturally always connected and accessible, but taking time to be active and free of my phone helps keep me in the game mentally.
In the past year, I learned some valuable lessons. Lessons which I think every one of us has ever encountered and need to remind ourselves every single day:
That I am enough.
That I am stronger than I think I am.
That my life is what I make it.
That I am in total control of my happiness.
That I am imperfect and flawed, but that’s okay.
So ask now yourself: Where am I today? Where you’re at, right now, at this moment, is where you’re supposed to be. It might not be what you like, it might not be what you anticipated, or it might be more than you’d anticipated. No matter what it might be, it’s okay. If it isn’t what you wished for, know it’s only temporary. It does not define you or the rest of your life.
Don’t forget your worth. It is there, and it is in you. It will guarantee you get to where you’re meant to be. The more you force it, the more you push for it, the more likely it will happen. So, STAND UP for what you deserve and let the rest fall into place!
You have to grit and grind through the hard parts...and do it with a grin on your face because you know you are going to make it.