Repeat after me #IamRemarkable
December has finally arrived and so has the time to reflect on a very hectic year. Probably like me, ‘your 2021 goals list’ was as long as your arm. After spending 2020 indoors, we all thought that 2021 would be the year of freedom.
And maybe now, unlike me, you are starring at that damn list thinking ‘What have I accomplished this year? There is so much I didn’t get to do.’ When I look at my list, I think ‘How have I done so much in the midst of a lockdown?’
Could the difference between your reaction and mine be my #IamRemarkable certification?
Intrigued? Keep reading.
#IamRemarkable because I took a certification in the midst of a lockdown
After working on my inner balance in 2020 with a bit of meditation, a lot of mindfulness and heaps of yoga, I started 2021 wondering what would keep me sane through this never-ending lockdown.
With the pandemic blurring forever our home/work life boundaries and highlighting the importance of an inclusive and equitable work culture, I knew that I had to be purposeful to choose my next professional certification. To help Unilever in landing their future fit culture, I decided that a training pairing ED&I and wellbeing would be best. Luckily enough, at the time, Unilever was employees to take an #IamRemarkable training. Since those trainings don’t come by often, I signed up within five minutes and bombarded my friends with the exciting news.
For those who don’t know, #IamRemarkable is a Google initiative empowering women and other underrepresented groups to celebrate their achievements in the workplace and beyond. What makes this certification unique is the access to unlimited research on the benefits of diversity and equity at work to create an inclusive workplace for all.
#IamRemarkable because I acknowledge my successes
You must think ‘Who the hell does she think she is?’. Acknowledging your successes is not about vanity but self-worth. The more you work on your confidence, the more it manifests basically ‘work on it till you become it’.
Beyond teaching the necessary behaviours for an equitable and healthy work culture, the #IamRemarkable training shares useful tools to celebrate one’s success. The course made me realise there isn’t such a thing as a BIG or SMALL achievement. The ratio pain/ gain isn’t the same for everyone; so why would we keep comparing our success to others? It doesn’t make sense, does it? Ie: one person can be remarkable for taking their kids to school in the morning despite feeling ill; whilst another can be remarkable for taking a diploma whilst having a full-time job.
The first time, I did the ‘I am remarkable because’ exercise in the workshop, I had an epiphany. I noticed the attendees seemed happier about my achievements than me. Their cheer made me realise that my accomplishments were a big deal. Let me tell you that, I decided right there, on the spot, to stop comparing myself to others.
Since then, whenever I try something new or do something well, I tap myself on the back. And when I look back at 2021, I see everything I have done despite a pandemic. I see the work I have put in and the resilience I have built. And so, should you!
#IamRemarkable because I help women from all over the world
In 2021, I have met so many inspiring women from all over the world thanks to volunteering. Regardless of our differences in culture, age, socio economical or professional backgrounds we all learnt something.
In some of the #IamRemarkable workshops, women even shared stories kept under wrap for years by fear of being judged. When this happens, it is hard to explain how proud, happy and inspired I am. A smile, a thank you and/ or a note from these women, and my day gets brightened in seconds.
With this blog, I want to start a movement when YOU stop belittling your achievements and instead hold your head up high and say #IamRemarkable because…. Your turn, tell me what you are remarkable for.
Tag me on Linkedin and start your sentence with #IamRemarkable because ( you fill in the rest). See you on the other side.
This blog contribution was made by Gaelle Couberes.
Gaelle is originally from France though a Londoner at heart, who believes in the power of sisterhood, championing diversity, inclusion and mental health. Gaelle works in the beauty industry as a Senior Innovation Manager, taking pride in being a content creator and a mentor.
In 2020, Gaelle became a mentor for the LMF mentoring programme and, in 2021, is crafting content for the blog.
Stay tuned for her regular blogs in English and French.
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What is LMF Network?
The LMF Network is a global social enterprise (not for profit) focused on empowering, enabling & educating women and marginalised groups into tech, entrepreneurship & digital. We specialise in designing and delivering accessible programmes and supporting a global community. We’ve gone from a brunch club to a social good brand based on what the community wanted. We are a real community run by real people.
