As I leave Austin, Texas, it will take me a while to unpack my USA experience, because it was one with many firsts!

First is how God truly came round in every facet.

You know, I used to be good at setting goals for my work life every year, but this year was different…I didn’t set out to have any. Why? Because I wanted to rest and focus on my wellbeing.

But somehow I squeezed one work related goal; to share insights of my research on remote work to global stages.

In February, I did a google search for international conferences on remote work and sent out a message to the first one that caught my eye…and shockingly in a few days, they responded positively. I even asked for 2 slots and I was gracefully granted.

You see, I did not even think too much about how to get there or whether it was convenient, seeing it was only 2 months away. I just decided…and this is something I preach often… just decide and think later. Don’t worry about the details. Don’t over rationalise it, because if you do, your mind will talk you out of it.

Though it was not my first time in the USA, it was my first time as a speaker in the USA. For this, I want to thank the Running Remote team for organising this novel initiative that serves remote and distributed teams.

It was my first time in Austin, Texas and I must say, the city delivered. I have been to conferences in Africa, the UK and Europe, and I must admit, Americans are really in a league of their own when it comes to energy and vibes. I found Americans really friendly and easy to engage with. The number of people smiling at me and generally striking conversations effortlessly was so heart warming. I felt really welcomed. I must say that networking was really easy here.

It was also the first time in a long time, that I was truly present mentally at a conference…sometimes I think I have undiagnosed ADHD, as I find it really difficult tuning into conversations for long periods. This was different. I had several long meaningful and empathic conversations with too many people to mention. I even got to feature in a 30 minute podcast interview.

I could go on and on if given a Mic but I will end on this note…

Your indecision is holding you back.

Whatever your dreams or goals, know that they are valid. Shoot your shot, as my people say.

Sure enough, life happens to you, but you can also happen to life.

You can design the life and future that you want.

Don’t focus on things coming to you. Go to things.

The world is one global village. The world is your oyster, literally.

Be prepared first, figure out the details later.

Get your passport and visas ready.

Rather than analyse the obstacles, be ready first and watch things come full circle.

Whatever your goals this year, I wish you the very best.

I am not done yet with my learnings from the US, so stay tuned.

Do share your thoughts?

ps: That was me demonstrating Running Remote with the very pleasant photographer who took this picture.