2026 goals. I've never liked goals, especially yearly ones. We adopted Agile methodology for a reason - we recognized that circumstances shift rapidly, and long cycles result in too much drift from reality. Can you imagine a year-long sprint, pre-planned in January? Normal life is no different - you wouldn't create an October grocery list in January. And goals themselves imply we have control over the outcome. We want to improve 'x' by doing 'y', but we dont actually know if 'y' will improve 'x' at all, nor if 'y' is sustainable over the duration.
After some thought, I returned to an old philosophy: life is a journey, not a destination. Goals, then, should not focus on outcomes but instead should support the experience and encourage more.
So instead of goals, I made deep breaths to take as the year progresses. (After all, what is Quality Engineering without pedantic language, right?)
Let the Ship Sink: dont hold on to unnecessary things. Many times I've felt I'm the only person holding it together, that I'm the only one that cares. And perhaps that's true - perhaps it's better instead to stop. If it's truly not important, I didnt need to be bailing out the water. If it is important, perhaps sinking completely will finally draw attention to the issue.
Be Present: as new experiences are encountered, take the time to understand them, to be still in them. There's rarely need to constantly rush forward, moving from experience to the next. Appreciate the moment, learn from it, and allow it to pass.
Focus on Community: a journey can take many paths, a community creates the signposts. Any opportunity to ask for guidance or set a guidepost should be taken. For me this is an ongoing project. I've built an extensive social community over the years, and now it's time to expand professionally. I've taken great heart in the Ministry of Testing, and envision supporting it however I can moving forward. A strong, vibrant, and resilient community builds supports for everyone on their journey, including the contributor.
Reflect and Enjoy: I've spent the last several years building, and I will continue to build. I think it's time to enjoy what I built, and reflect more on the journey so far, and appreciate where I am. Wisdom is always chasing, I've just been too fast. A flourishing garden is pointless if you dont stop to enjoy the fruit.
