Professionalism

Today, as I arrived at work at 7:30am, the entire concept of professionalism struck me. It is a subjective term that means many things to many people. I enjoy being early and I like leaving late. Yet this doesn't stress me out. I am flexible and can work from anywhere. I don't need an office, and as long as I have internet access (a device that can access the internet...e.g iphone / laptop). I am happy...I don't consider that to be professionalism.

To me, professionalism is tied in with confidentiality, integrity, loyalty and getting work done. According to Pablo Picasso;

“You must always work not just within but below your means. If you can handle three elements, handle only two. If you can handle ten, then handle five. In that way the ones you do handle, you handle with more ease; more mastery and you create a feeling of strength in reserve.” 

I agree in concept and I strive to attain that ideal. However, the reality tends to be that work places are increasingly understaffed and therefore, you must try to constantly master more faster. This appears to be the reality for me...I thrive in pressurized environments.But I find that in such environments, it is vital to know your capacity, and time constraints, as prioritizing can sometimes leave the small details to become bigger problems. Therefore, I do believe that it is vital to communicate your limits, and only agree to do what you personally believe can be achieved. Therefore, when you get more done, you feel successful and that confidence can be a boost. If you get the expected amount done...then you feel happy that you were busy, worked hard and did your share to a standard that is universally acceptable and the best product you could--that to me is professional time management. I have no problem with this and I know that I can achieve a lot when pressed. 

 I think that I am professional when I treat everyone with the same level of respect, patience and politeness. Yet that does not mean being stiff, never having a real conversation nor does it mean giving equal time to everyone.

While I have a personal concept of professionalism...I had never considered the topic before or contrasted my definition with other peoples and this struck me as odd. I don't know how I got onto this concept at all. Perhaps it was when I saw the quote above (Pablo Picasso). I meant to write this blog about the opening session of the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. Instead, it became a personal discourse on the meaning of professionalism. There is no link (and none implied). I will get back to the original aim tonight or tomorrow after work as my lunch break is almost over.

Before I end, I would love to hear your thoughts. What is the most important aspect of professionalism to you? Don't be shy....