No experience is wasted and it is true.
Life is a learning process and elevation is available to the person who is ready to pursue it. To get to your next level, expect to learn new things. Do not be afraid to learn.
Often I encounter people who are surprised about my information technology expertise, web programming, analytics and several aspects of digital business with a legal background.
In the past, I was somewhat taken aback by their questions because I thought: “What is wrong with knowing about technology even if you have a legal background? What’s the issue?”
As I got older and matured, it did not bother me. I even wrote about my experience at a job interview where the hiring manager could not fathom that it was possible to be well-versed in different fields. Click here for that story.
In this life, you must be who God created you to be and not be bothered about what people think.
If you consistently worry about human beings’ perception of you, disappointment will constantly accompany you. Who needs that, especially now?
I sought a way to merge all my knowledge and expertise together. I knew my experience had purpose and someday it would show up. One day I stumbled across a data privacy certification. I looked into it and I said to myself, “This is what I do already and I just need to take it one step further.” I studied for it, took the test, passed and became a Certified Information Privacy Professional.
As I advanced in the field, it dawned on me that I had something that many people in the legal profession did not have – extensive tech experience. Front end web programming. Backend systems testing. Project management. Data analytics.
I must say that I am very blessed and I do not take the grace of God upon my life for granted. Now, as a data privacy consultant, in situations where other professionals may become stuck trying to decipher some tech issues, I jump right in because of my background.
If you are thinking that what you studied in college does not apply to your current profession, think again. At some point in your life, you will see that it is connected and you will be very grateful for doing it.
If you are at crossroads right now and not sure of which way to turn in your career, sit back, get out a piece of paper and write down every experience that you have, what you are passionate about and see how you can connect the two.
There is nothing new under the sun. You are not alone because there are many people who are also in the same boat. The experience you have already has prepared you for such a time as this. Now, go and be you!
