Reflections weekend: Discovery journey through the pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has left an indelible mark on the world, altering lives and livelihoods in countless ways. In the midst of the chaos and uncertainty I found myself working in essential services, compelled by duty and a personal sense of responsibility to get vaccinated. This story unfolds during a weekend in 2021 when I, a Discovery Insure policy holder, received the COVID-19 vaccine at the Discovery Vaccination Centre in Sandton, South Africa. This pivotal moment led to a unique call to duty and a chain of events that ultimately culminated in a team coaching opportunity from Discovery Health. As I reflect on this remarkable journey, I’ve identified five key insights that have profoundly impacted my life.

The power of taking initiative

Getting vaccinated during the pandemic was a personal choice driven by a deep sense of responsibility. I understood that as an essential worker, I not only needed to protect myself but also contribute to the collective effort to curb the virus. Little did I know that this simple act of taking the initiative to get vaccinated would open doors to unforeseen opportunities. It taught me that sometimes, the first step towards change is as simple as showing up and taking action.

Trust begets trust

The call to duty that followed my vaccination experience was an unexpected turn of events. I was approached by Discovery Health to support their team, a responsibility that required a significant level of trust. This trust was established not only through my professional competence but also by my willingness to participate in the vaccination process. It reinforced the idea that trust is a two-way street – by demonstrating trustworthiness, we can, in turn, earn the trust of others.

The ripple effect of mentorship

One of the most surprising aspects of my journey was the role played by someone I had mentored several years ago as an intern. Their recommendation ultimately led to my involvement with Discovery Health. This realization highlighted the profound impact of mentorship and how our guidance can shape the futures of those we mentor. It reminded me that our influence extends far beyond our immediate interactions.

Dedication and long-term commitment

Over the past two decades, I have dedicated myself to building a career learning and development specialist-coaching, mentoring and leadership. This unwavering commitment not only positioned me as a trusted professional but also paved the way for the opportunities that followed my vaccination. It’s a reminder that dedication and perseverance in one’s chosen path can yield unexpected rewards in the long run.

The interconnectedness of life’s events

My journey from being a Discovery Insure policy holder to a team coaching opportunity provider was a testament to the interconnectedness of life’s events. Small decisions, like choosing to get vaccinated, can set in motion a series of events that lead to meaningful and unexpected outcomes. It underscores the importance of being open to new experiences and embracing the twists and turns of life’s journey.

In conclusion, my weekend during the COVID-19 pandemic, as a Discovery Insure policy holder and essential worker providing – coaching psychology support, was a rollercoaster of experiences and opportunities. It taught me that our actions, no matter how small, can have far-reaching consequences. By taking initiative, building trust, mentoring others, staying dedicated, and recognizing life’s interconnectedness, we can navigate the challenges of the pandemic and beyond with resilience and optimism.