Why I’m Still Learning – Even After Landing My “Dream Role”

The Moment That Lit a Fire in Me

I’ll never forget the day a Senior Manager told me, “You’re not relevant in the petroleum sector.” I was just an intern with no formal qualifications in the energy sector, and those words cut deep. I cried. I doubted myself. But then something shifted. Instead of shrinking, I made a decision: I would become undeniable.

That moment ignited a hunger in me. I enrolled in an Honours in Energy Studies, and suddenly, doors began to open. But I didn’t stop there. I’m now pursuing a Master’s in Sustainable Energy because I’m not just here to fill a seat; I’m here to contribute, to lead, and to innovate.

Landing the Title Was Just the Beginning

When I finally stepped into my middle management role, I realized something no one prepares you for: The learning doesn’t stop when you get the job; it accelerates. Middle Management is the engine of any organization. You’re the bridge between Senior Leadership and Operational Teams, ensuring targets are met, strategies are executed, and people are empowered. It’s exhilarating—and exhausting. You have to:

• Think beyond your comfort zone (because the easy decisions rarely move the needle).
• Make tough calls that align with the company’s goals (even when they’re unpopular).
• Lead with empathy (because titles don’t inspire people—connection does).

But here’s the secret: My technical skills got me the role. My soft skills keep me thriving in it. The Two Soft Skills That Changed Everything:

1. Kindness – The Unexpected Superpower

Early in my career, a colleague went out of their way to make my life difficult. Then, one day, they needed my help. I could’ve said no. I could’ve held a grudge. Instead, I helped them—without hesitation. Their response? “I never thought you’d help me after what I did to you.” That moment taught me that kindness isn’t weakness. It’s strength. People remember how you treat them, especially when they least deserve it. Now, as a manager, I lead with kindness—not because it’s easy but because it builds trust, loyalty, and a team that’s willing to go the extra mile.

2. Resilience – Borrowed from the Running Trail

As a Comrades Marathon runner, I’ve learned that progress isn’t linear. There are hills, cramps, and moments when quitting feels easier than pushing forward. My career has been the same. There are days when the pressure feels overwhelming, when imposter syndrome creeps in, or when a project fails. But just like in running, I’ve learned to:

Embrace the discomfort (it means you’re growing).

Adjust my pace (not every problem requires a sprint).

 Keep my eyes on the finish line (even when the path isn’t clear).

Resilience isn’t about never falling—it's about always getting back up.

The Truth About “Dream Roles”

They’re not destinations. They’re launchpads. If you’re waiting for the day, you finally feel “ready,” you’ll be waiting forever. The most successful people I know—in the energy sector, in business, in life—are the ones who never stop learning.

So, here’s my challenge to you:

• What’s the next skill you’re adding to your toolkit?
•  How will you use it to push your industry forward?

Because relevance isn’t given, it’s earned. And the moment you stop learning is the moment you start becoming obsolete.

 

Your Turn

Have you ever been told you weren’t “relevant”? How did you respond? Let’s swap stories in the comments.