The women’s majlis: Taking a journey into the unknown

Words encouraged me that the worst-case scenario, if I ever fail, is that I’ll come out of it with a wider knowledge of the business world, the people and myself.

“I made a few mistakes, I’m thinking of making a few more.” A wise man sent me these words recently in a text message after he learnt about my life-changing decision to fly out of the corporate sky and dive into the ocean of entrepreneurship and ­writing.

These words encouraged me and reminded me that the worst-case scenario, if I ever fail, is that I’ll come out of it with a wider knowledge of the business world, the people and myself.

This was confirmed last week, as I was lucky enough to attend the Women Achieve seminar at the Rosewood Abu Dhabi. It hosted a panel of successful women and men who shared fascinating career stories and answered ­interesting and thought-­provoking questions.

The collective wisdom they shared was invaluable. It definitely applied to both men and women. As one of them said, talent knows no age, race or gender. They encouraged asking as many questions as you can, as long as you don’t ask the same question twice. It’s all about learning and not being afraid of being wrong – if you’re asking and learning, it’s a good thing. One of the questions asked was how to deal with politics. The answer was so simple but effective: be true to yourself. Know your job inside out and be strong technically.

Another powerful insight was about taking on a challenge, embracing it and asking for help when it’s needed. Don’t hesitate to take risks and push yourself to learn, network and make connections; surround yourself with motivated people.

By the end of the inspiring seminar, I closed my notebook after I wrote down one of my favourite pieces of wisdom: entrepreneurship is not about the destination, but about the challenge and the fun that comes with it.

As I drove back from the hotel, I replayed the past few weeks of my life in my head, from the moment I resigned. Floating in a bubble is definitely safer than diving into an undiscovered ocean. Taking on this new challenge and risk terrifies me to the bone. However, I’ve always believed that there’s no growth without risks – if the challenge doesn’t scare me, it’s not worth taking.

Life is too short to be doing something we’re not passionate about. We have two choices: live or make a living. If we truly know what makes our lives worthwhile, the choice will be easy and the motive to climb above our fears will carry us towards a meaningful, fulfilling life.

It’s important to know our goals and have a plan, but be resilient and flexible, as life teaches us more about who we are and what we’re made of.

On a journey into unfamiliar land, it’s important to be equipped with belief in ourselves and the dreams we’re pursuing.

Deena Al Mansoori is a ­project manager and an ­entrepreneur.

• If you have a good story to tell or an interesting issue to debate, contact Shireena Al Nowais on [e-mail].