I’ve just finished two weeks of work experience. The last time I was on formal work experience was back in 2005 in an office environment. Three years later I found myself back in a small firms office. What makes the two experiences different is that this time round I’ve actually come back home with some new learned skills and experiences. The sight of Microsoft Excel spreadsheets and filing really hits the nail on the head when it comes to office work but somebody has to do it. Fortunately for me, the filing work was only a taster.

On the first day I found myself looking at building plans and measuring out areas and lengths. This is where GCSE Math’s really kicks in.

At the end of completing any major task, whether it is work experience or a project for a client; I always like some feedback. I tend to value any criticism or suggestions in feedback quite highly as this is the only real way of finding out weaknesses which need pay attention to. To keep a record organised I’ve created a box called the ‘Critique box’. Inside it I place all the feedback I get. What you don’t see on the cover of the box (which has been covered up by the construction plan) is a sentence saying “..and a few kind words”.

You constantly have to remind yourself that every critical statement is only a step to improve on and extend your ladder towards success. All too often people get disheartened by the slightest of negative feedback and start working backwards rather than forwards. I’ve also been fortunate to have been told my employer about some personal development teachers called Brian Tracy & Tony Robbins. I’ve heard some audio books by them and I’m quite impressed. My aim now is to adjust my life and try to empower myself in order to achieve more.