I didn't know it was Thanksgiving.

I mustered the courage to attend an event about the Circular Economy all by lonesome.🙌🏻 Overcoming my fear of small talk (in Spanish!), I made at least four new connections with amazing people making a real societal impact. I was charged and inspired!

I had the pleasure of connecting with an experienced environmental advisor who shared some incredible insights. Equally inspiring was a wonderful lady from Ecuador who founded an association, building a meaningful bridge between development projects back home and the Basque community.

I learned of a community kitchen initiative working towards more sustainable food purchases. (I just signed up!) And it doesn't stop there—communities are teaming up to embrace renewable energy. My mind was blown by the wealth of both challenges and solutions in this corner of the world. I was completely unaware! Oh and a lovely social worker translated when one of the speakers decided to use Euskera; all thanks to a smile and a “Kaixo! Soy Janine.”

The next day, though, I woke up frustrated with myself and my career. A wave of fears overwhelmed me. How can I be part of the good in the world? Will I ever find my sweet spot in the arena of social impact when I can’t even find a job in the for-profit sector? Was my job at the Philippine Senate the peak of my career and potential? Tough questions. The pressure turned to tears.

Appreciation for Friends, Old and New

I reached out to friends. So thankful for Kars and Misha! And thank heavens Saira was free for a nerves-calming, ego-uplifting, laughter-inducing call. (Love you guys!)

There's also this fantastic group I meet up with regularly—ladies I met through the courses I've been taking. I'm helping them with their projects and personal branding. A quick workshop on elevator pitches and LinkedIn profiles filled me up with purpose.

Did you know that one of the secrets to happiness is getting out of your own mind and helping others? It's working. It really is. The tears from fears transformed into tears of appreciation.

Welcome to your life. There’s no turning back…🎶 - Tears for Fears 😆

Networking Insights

Networking used to make me cringe, but now I see it in a totally different light. By focusing on people, their stories, and the wealth of knowledge they offer, networking becomes an enriching adventure. Why couldn’t I get over myself and my insecurities sooner?😩 (Janine, forget about you!😜)

Here are some of my lessons learned from networking in Donosti:

* A warm smile and a genuine compliment go a long way.

* No one cares if your grammar sucks!

* Always ask for contact details—number? LinkedIn? Instagram?

* Follow up with a sincere message to nurture the connection.

* Invite them for a coffee chat, learn about their projects, explore their career path, and seek advice!

Here are some more networking tips from a new LinkedIn connection. Destiny sent me her post as I started my mission to build my local web.❤️

What’s next?

This weekend I take a quick break from it all. Heading over to London for a few days! Woot woot! Then… Who knows? I have loads of little projects and goals and ideas. Just gotta keep taking action, even if it’s just the little steps! Time flies. Life flies. Let’s make the most of it!

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