Celebrate the small wins

Starting out here in Brazil, I knew it would take me much longer than normal to dig into the company and factory and really drive change.  I knew that the language barrier and the cultural differences would be road blocks that I normally wouldn't encounter if I were in the same position in the US.  I also knew that a huge portion of my ability to succeed hinges on other people's willingness to be patient with me and help me through the incredibly steep learning curve.  

I've been very fortunate to have found many such people here in Brazil.  People willing to take a little extra time to help me get through the day and to be successful.

My manager gave me a bit of advice the other day which I feel like I already knew, but it was nice to be reminded about:

Celebrate the small wins.   

I am not going to change the world today.  I'm not going to change the world tomorrow.  I'm probably not going to change the world by the time I leave for the US in 11 months.  Thus, we should not wait for world changing events to celebrate; we would be waiting for far too long.

Today I am going to celebrate my small wins by sharing a few key milestones here:

1.  I conducted my first meeting in Portuguese - and everyone confirmed they understood.  

2.  My manager was very impressed with the amount of work I've been able to accomplish considering all my unique challenges. 

3.  I confidently asked a young girl at the academia for her phone number and I think we might have lunch sometime.  I am supremely proud of this actually.  It is step one to maybe making friends. I did it again with my Portuguese teacher, because she is AWESOME.

4.  I let go of a relationship that was hurting more than helping.

These are without a doubt small wins.  However, these small moments in my life felt like huge boulders while I was going through them and I am proud.  These small hurdles, while not world changing have helped to propel me forward and hopefully upward.

Now - time for pictures :)

Christian brought a six pack of Fat Tire from Chicago for Pia, little did he know I love it too!

The group out on the town in Campinas!!

Pia, Sandra, Carlos, me, Christian - out celebrating Carolina's birthday

Pia and Fernanda - Such a cute couple!!

Christian and Rodrigo sharing a moment... and a Caparinha

Pia, Christian, and I - enjoying some nightlife

It says Cookies Chocolate... I cannot think of a more wonderful sounding place!!