Jennica Lurie’s Post

It's good to have a job that gives us meaning and purpose besides other perks. Sometimes the meaning and purpose is enough to offset the other downsides we may have to put up with. That said, we have to take steps in order to maintain our well-being for the entirety of our lives, including the work portion Firstly we need to understand that work is just a part of our lives and was never meant to rule our lives. While several modern factors have grown work to have an outsize influence or meaning in our lives, this was never the case across most of history. Many countries have also been maintaining their balance or going back to it post-COVID. Regardless of the environment around us, we need to remember that the start and end of our lives are bookended by periods without any mention and expectation of work. To that end we need to think more about and pay more attention to those who have and will occupy these 2 bookends of our lives. These would generally be our family, friends and other persons whom we add value to and add value to us outside of the work context. To assume that we can pick relationships up from where we left off after a years-long or decades-long hiatus is not just foolish but tragic. The same goes for our health; it would be sad if we work now to earn money in order to nurse the ailments (accrued throughout our working life) later. Loving our work does not mean that we should coddle the less than ideal individuals, practices and environments that surround it. It is unrealistic to expect a person (or group of persons) to prop up or rescue a broken organisation with broken practices. Even if such expectations are borne by others out of naivete or opportunism, for the greater good we should seek to address the issues rather than hope for our superhuman efforts to plaster over them. In many cases, we can still do what we enjoy and find meaning in under different circumstances and contexts. We have to be careful not to tie our vocation to specific organisations or persons as that is a sure way to generate a feeling of being trapped once things turn sour. In the event that the entire vocation has lost its shine, don't forget that there usually are transferrable skills and knowledge which can be moved across roles, industries and organisations. Even if things are fine now, it makes sense to do a sense check periodically. Life circumstances often change, and what was ok in the past and present may be untenable in the future. That does not mean that the vocation has to exit our lives permanently. Sometimes things come full circle and we may be in a position to resume our work in the same context when our life circumstances change yet again. What matters is that we do the right things at the right time and place, with the right people in the right way. When our life is calibrated correctly for the current context, it allows us to go further and higher in the long run. #worklifemanagement #worksmarternotharder #selfcare

I once juggled 3 casual jobs while studying full-time on a student visa. Struggling to pay rent, buy groceries, and keep up with assignments. Sound familiar? To my fellow international students and migrant job seekers: Your work-life balance isn't just a luxury. It's essential. Here's what I wish someone had told me: ☘️ Hustle culture' isn't the answer: It's okay to rest. Really. Burnout won't pay the bills either. Your well-being matters, even when money is tight. ☘️ Small self-care acts count: Setting boundaries is strength. It's not selfish to say 'no' sometimes. Your time has value. ☘️ Fitting in' doesn't mean losing yourself: Your unique perspective is an asset. Embrace it. ☘️ Community is everything: You're not alone in this struggle. Reach out. Connect. Support each other. I made it through those tough times. But it wasn't easy. And it shouldn't have to be that hard. If you're in this boat right now: You're doing better than you think. It's okay to not have it all figured out. Your journey is valid. What's your biggest challenge right now? Share below. Let's support each other. 👇 New to Australia 🇦🇺or navigating a career change? Drop your questions in the comments or simply connect. I've been there and I'm here to help👋 #InternationalStudentLife #MigrantStruggle #WorkLifeBalance #YouAreNotAlone

It's been very disheartening to read about young professionals being overworked to the point whereby they take their own lives. It makes me think of all the graduates who will be walking into unfamiliar environments with the fear of being overworked. Here are some strategies to have in place when you enter the workplace: Prioritize Self-Care: Make time for activities that recharge you, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones. Stay Organized: Use planners or digital tools to manage your tasks. This can help alleviate feelings of being overwhelmed. Develop a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can provide structure and predictability, helping to manage anxiety. Foster Connections: Build a supportive network at work and outside of it. Strong relationships can be a great source of support. Learn to Say No: It’s important to recognize your limits and not take on more than you can handle. #MentalHealth#Careers#Graduates

Navigating the job market in the UK's social sector is a journey filled with unique challenges and profound rewards. 1. Passion vs. Position: The social sector draws individuals with a deep commitment to social cause, leading to intense competition for a limited number of roles in UK. Standing out requires not just passion, but a strategic approach to showcasing your unique skills and experiences. 2. Funding Fluctuations: Many social sector organizations operate within tight budget constraints, leading to fewer job openings and an increase in internship, temporary or part-time positions. This instability requires job seekers to remain flexible and proactive. 3. Experience Paradox: Finding the right balance between academic qualifications and practical experience can be tricky. People often end up doing other works like retail, transportation, etc. for survival instead working in their relevant field of expertise. New graduates and career changers often face the classic "need experience to get experience" dilemma. 4. Regional Imbalance: Opportunities are often concentrated in major cities like London, necessitating relocation or long commutes, which can be a significant barrier for many candidates. 5. Sustainability Struggles: The emotionally demanding nature of social sector work can lead to burnout, making it crucial for professionals to find sustainable ways to manage their workload and mental health. Additionally, migrants frequently experience homesickness due to living in an entirely new environment. Yet, despite these hurdles, the chance to contribute to meaningful social change makes the journey worthwhile. To all those navigating this path, keep pushing forward and stay connected with your community. Your efforts are essential and valued. #SocialSector #UKJobs #SocialImpact #CareerJourney #development #jobs #career #opportunity #jobsinUK #socialwork #jobs #struggle #funding #UKexperience #london #india #experiencesharing #unitedkingdom #UK #kumarpreetampuri #linkedintop

Two big differences I noticed while working in the UK. 1. The workplace actually feels like a workplace and you are exactly treated like an employee (no sugarcoating as family and stuff), understanding we all are working for money and no thoughts like "Are you working just for money?". This way I felt it is easy for both ends to maintain a professional relationship and there is nothing to be taken personally or emotionally, making things much simpler. Its 5, get going, no one cares. Also, on the other side, I have to mention the reliability they have when we approach for any help. That's completely amazing irrespective of the boundaries conveying an employee deserves that. 2. I'm not sure if this would be applicable widely, but at the organization I work for, they keep pushing our boundaries encouraging us to be in a better position. From day 1, my trainers and mentors kept saying "Most of you are overqualified for this job. So keep looking for our internal jobs board to upgrade yourself as the growth happens rapidly once you are into the organisation". I was slightly shocked about this one as this has never happened to me personally or not even heard from my circle of friends anywhere, that too from the day we joined for a new job. I honestly feel this kind of tiny professional etiquette will make a big difference to both ends, having healthy relationships anytime. #unitedkingdom #workplace #professionalism #netflix

Are you someone who has relocated? Are you facing challenges related to work? Uncertainty Identity issues Missing your old job or career Reinventing yourself Excitement & worry about new opportunities These are only some of the issues. I get it. See the video below that includes a photo of me, when I was younger and a new graduate from UW (go DAWGS) School of Social Work. It took me years to figure out what I wanted to do for a profession - 20 years later I am STILL a clinical social worker at heart and proud to be part of the profession. That being said, relocating gave me opportunites (and many challenges) to reinvent myself - using my skills and education - that I worked hard for. What works? Getting support and talking to someone can help to sort through the emotions and challenges and make a plan to move forward. Maybe you need a business coach, or talking to a friend is what you need. Looking for professional support from someone who has been there? Who can help you think about the underlying emotions, challenges, worries - and opportunities? Contact me for a free 20 minute chat, bring one work related challenge to the conversation and let's see what we can sort out together. #relocationcounseling #relocationconsulting #expatcounseling #expatconsulting #onetoonesupport

I love learning and contributing my knowledge. I need earning. But.. I don't like workplace interactions much. The psychopathy that is often exchanged in such places, puts me off! If it’s honesty, empathy, and emotional intelligence shared, I love it, but it rarely comes. My self-esteem comes from the unique way I see the world. I don’t want to dilute my high philosophies of life with mediocrity. So that's another reason to seek remote options. What about you? #workplacetoxicity #lifephilosophy #remotejob #mentalhealth

This week, we’re pleased to introduce Lily Bryant, a rising senior at Princeton University studying Economics with a certificate in Spanish Language and Culture. This summer, Lily is joining our Essential Service Retail team, offering her valuable insights and energy to our ongoing projects. Read on to learn more about Lily:   1. What are you looking forward to at CenterSquare?    At CenterSquare, I am excited to learn from my team. I am passionate about working with people and am drawn to the firm’s collaborative and dynamic work culture. I appreciate working with the ESR team because the specificity of my role has already allowed me to form relationships with every member. At CenterSquare, everyone goes out of their way to welcome, teach, and support the interns in our work. In just the few weeks I have been here, I have already learned much about the industry and begun developing important soft skills I didn’t have when I started.   2. What is your greatest professional accomplishment thus far?   Beginning in February 2023, I assisted Nathán Goldberg Crenier on his campaign to be Vice President of US Soccer. Nathán, the youngest candidate, did not come from within the US soccer membership and started off as an underdog in the race. To assist his efforts, I explored the landscape of professional, amateur, and youth soccer in the United States and the role of its key decision-makers. We extended outreach to every single state and introduced Nathán to the community. Nathán won the election, and I was extremely proud of his incredible efforts, attention to detail, and my hands-on role behind the scenes throughout the process.   3. What are your top three productivity tips for a successful workday?   I really try to prioritize how I start the day, so my top three tips are all in preparation for the workday. I lay out my work clothes the night before so I am not scrambling in the morning, exercise before work to kick off the day, and make a to-do list of all my tasks so I can cross things off as I accomplish them.   4. What is at the top of your bucket list?   Obviously, skydiving and owning a teacup pig are near the top of my extensive bucket list, but at the very top is living abroad. I love to travel and have spent time in Spain as I am studying for my Spanish certificate. I would love to experience fully living in another country before settling down in the states.   5. For the final question, you may choose between sharing a fun fact or something that brings you joy.   In my free time, I love to sew. When I was little, I wanted to be a fashion designer. I grew up patching the rips in the knees of my brother’s jeans from playing too hard at recess and creating clothes for my dolls, and eventually, over COVID, I started my own brand, selling reworked college tailgate apparel online. Although I do not still sell clothes through my shop, sewing remains a passion and a creative outlet. #CenterSquare #SummerInternship #Spotlight

As I mentor young professionals at AIBC internship program, stay close to some former employees and participate at a WhatsApp group of young Brazilian Architects (to be) I notice this is becoming a common issue. As employers, friends and mentors is our responsibility to not support some common practices and pressure leading to this (sometimes) irreparable mental health issue. It’s like a concussion or worse….. much worse. Unfortunately young professionals are being pressured to prove themselves, make more money by working long hours which is seen as a “unexpensive” way to get things done by some firms I know. In the long term these practices are unhealthy to responsible employers and employees. We must start paying serious attention to this issue; Just look at the numbers on this article. #workpressure #life #burnout #lifeworkbalance #peofits overall #notobullying