career-reflection

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From Oslo's Morning Train: Bridging Global Conflicts with Lessons from My First Job

Frost-covered Oslo cityscape at sunrise, a person staring thoughtfully, holding a UN report.
Kaia Thonul, Tuesday, March 26, 2024, 09:37

It's an icy, crystalline morning here in Norway, with temperatures barely climbing above freezing, yet the atmosphere is electric, stimulating. Every morning, I settle into the rhythmic rumble of my daily train ride from the outskirts of Oslo to the bustling heart of the city, my laptop open, my fingers poised above the keys, ready to dive into another day of blogging.

This morning, I've chosen to reflect on something deeply personal - the learnings from my first job. Looking back, I can't help but smile at the trials, triumphs, and the sheer amount of personal growth that took place during that time.

My first job taught me patience - an absolute necessity during my hectic daily commute. I learnt that biding my time until the right opportunity could often be the best course of action, as opposed to rushing blindly into situations. I also witnessed the transformative power of resilience. Even in the most challenging times, when deadlines overwhelmed and my energy was waning, I found that perseverance always prevailed.

At the same time, my first job imparted the importance of adaptability. Each day brought its own unique set of challenges and opportunities, much like my university course does now. It taught me to find comfort in the mutable, to welcome the unpredictable nature of our world with open arms.

Now, as I write this, I find myself drawing parallels to the news I just read - about the UN Security Council's resolution on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It's a sobering parallel that echoes my personal learnings. Patience, resilience and adaptability are vital in such situations. However, as the UN underlines, these traits are not sufficient in themselves; concrete action is necessary to halt the escalating violence and negotiate sustainable peace.

Interestingly enough, the very resolution of this conflict embraces the thread of learning that ran through my first job – the importance of dialogue, negotiation and understanding. It all boils down not just to reacting, but responding with thoughtfulness, empathy and respect for all involved. After all, my first job taught me that it's only through sincere engagement and communication that sustained progress is possible.

So, as I continue my journey both physically and metaphorically aboard this early morning train, I can't help but look back with gratitude at the lessons I’ve embraced. These lessons, much like this crisp, clear Nordic morning, will remain with me, guiding and informing every future leap I take.

As this train moves tirelessly forward, so do we all, carrying our learnings, our hopes, and our dreams for a brighter, more peaceful world.

Tags: personal growth Career Reflection global politics

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