As we stand on the brink of a new era, artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how we lead and innovate. This presents a unique opportunity for leaders across all sectors to harness AI's potential to drive success, break barriers, and create new pathways in an increasingly digital world. Yet, amidst disruptive technology, one essential practice remains imperative: self-reflection.

A Journey of Transformation

Over the past 22 years, I've navigated the dynamic landscapes of technology and leadership. Transitioning from SAP ERP and BI Analytics to ServiceNow in 2016 was not just a career shift but a redefinition of my professional trajectory. Managing multimillion-dollar budgets and leading complex international projects, I honed my ability to apply operational cost-saving strategies effectively.

Today, my hands-on technical and business development experience spans industries such as sports, government, retail, and manufacturing. My primary objective is to design the next-generation practice model success framework. By employing proactive planning, I aim to continue leading in the ServiceNow market as an Elite partner. This involves focusing on global practice growth, building high-performing teams, and providing strategic solutions that positively impact customers. And yes, #IDoItForThe24x7OnCallers—because I understand the relentless dedication it takes to keep systems running seamlessly.

Facing Obstacles and Embracing Change

When I began my career over 22 years ago, I had no idea of the challenges that lay ahead. The road was filled with obstacles that required not just technical acumen but also resilience and determination. I decided to make it my mission to influence change by stepping out of my comfort zone.

My story isn't just about personal achievement; it's about paving the way for the right people in the right roles. It's about proving that practicing empathy in the technology world isn't just possible—it's essential.

Harnessing AI for Strategic Leadership

AI is revolutionizing decision-making, enabling leaders to analyze data with unprecedented speed and precision. With ServiceNow's AI capabilities, vast amounts of data can be transformed into actionable insights, allowing for swift, data-driven decisions that propel organizations forward. This technological shift not only enhances efficiency but also empowers leaders to focus on strategic and creative endeavors, elevating their visibility and impact.

However, as AI evolves, concerns about job displacement arise. It’s essential to view AI as a tool that augments human capabilities rather than replaces them. While some roles may change, many jobs will evolve, requiring new skills. This transformation calls for continuous learning and upskilling. Businesses must invest in AI literacy programs, and professionals should seek out new learning opportunities to adapt to this changing landscape.

The Importance of Self-Reflection in an AI Era

Recently, I encouraged my team to engage in a self-reflection exercise. I believed it was crucial for them to take time to reflect on their journeys, acknowledge how far they've come, and stay aligned with where they want to be. As their leader, I wanted them to recognize the impact they've already made, understand what they want to change about themselves, identify the skills they wish to improve, and devise plans to achieve their goals.

I wouldn't ask my team to do something I hadn't done myself. So, I decided to "practice what I preach" and embarked on my own journey of self-reflection using Gibbs’ Reflective Cycle. This process allowed me to delve into habits and experiences that had shaped my career, understand what contributed to my success, and plan for the future.

Revelations from Self-Reflection

The exercise was long overdue and, ultimately, life changing. In an AI-driven world, self-reflection becomes even more critical as we navigate rapid technological changes. Here are some key revelations from my 20+ year career journey:

• Safety and Authenticity - I realized the importance of feeling safe to be my authentic self. In environments where I suppressed my true self to fit others' expectations, my confidence waned. Embracing authenticity is crucial in leading effectively, especially in times of change.
• Value Beyond Resources - I am now valued as a person, a change influencer, not just a technical resource. In the AI era, human qualities like creativity, empathy, and strategic thinking become even more valuable.
• Trust and Collaboration - Trust is foundational. In teams where trust thrives, collaboration and innovation flourish—essential components in leveraging AI technologies successfully.
• Continuous Learning - The rapidly evolving technology landscape requires an ongoing commitment to learning and skill development. This mindset not only keeps us relevant but also opens doors to new opportunities.
• Purpose and Mission - Aligning with a clear purpose provides direction amidst the uncertainties of technological advancement. It fuels resilience and motivation.

Leading with Resilience and Avoiding Stagnation

In an AI-driven world, the pace can be relentless, making self-care crucial for sustaining long-term success. Setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and leveraging AI to streamline operations are key strategies. ServiceNow's platform automates routine tasks, freeing up time for leaders to focus on innovation and strategic initiatives, ultimately reducing cognitive load and preventing burnout.

Breaking Down Barriers and Advancing Careers

AI plays a critical role in leveling the playing field across various industries. AI-driven tools can help mitigate biases, focusing on skills and qualifications over any other factors. This shift towards merit-based decisions leads to more diverse and inclusive workplaces. It’s vital to ensure that diverse teams are involved in AI development to create inclusive and equitable technology.

To succeed in this rapidly evolving industry, leaders should prioritize developing both technical proficiency—especially in AI, data analytics, and ServiceNow—and soft skills like leadership, communication, and adaptability. Pursuing certifications, attending workshops, and staying updated on industry trends will help professionals stay competitive.

Empowering the Next Generation and Building Inclusive Workplaces

The future for professionals in tech is bright, with AI and automation opening new opportunities for leadership and innovation. ServiceNow, for instance, has made strides in fostering a culture that supports growth and development for all team members.

At NewRocket, supporting career development is embedded in our culture. In my journey, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who encouraged me to take on challenging roles, helping me to develop both technical expertise and strategic vision. This approach not only strengthens one’s

Leadership Qualities for Business Transformations

Effective leadership in a world increasingly influenced by AI requires a blend of adaptability, empathy, and vision. Leaders must be flexible, open to new approaches, and able to guide their teams through uncertainty. Empathy is essential to understanding the human impact of disruptive technology, while a visionary mindset enables leaders to anticipate trends and inspire innovation.

A Call to Action: Embrace Self-Reflection and AI

If there's one takeaway from my journey, it's this: Don't wait too long to make self-reflection a regular part of your professional life. Whether you're experiencing significant positive changes or facing challenges in your career, self-reflection can provide clarity and direction—especially as we navigate the complexities introduced by AI.

Here are some steps to guide you:

1. Ask Yourself:

• What's important to me at this moment?
• How have my priorities changed over the years?
• How am I aligning my actions with what's important to me?
• What's challenging about this alignment?
• What actions can I take today?

2. Reflect Regularly:

• Document experiences that significantly impact you.
• Acknowledge your feelings—they are valid and uniquely yours.
• Evaluate what went well and what didn't. Dig deep to understand the underlying factors.
• Analyze the experiences by asking "why" to uncover deeper insights.
• Identify lessons learned and consider what could have been done differently.
• Develop an action plan, set goals, seek feedback, and pursue skill-building opportunities.

By incorporating these practices, reflective thinking will become a habit, enhancing both your personal and professional growth in an AI-driven world.

Embrace the Future with Confidence

Remember, your career is your unique journey. Focus on being the best version of yourself—no one else can do that. Once you embrace this concept with a growth mindset, you'll build confidence, ease up on self-criticism, and appreciate that your path is yours alone. Your experiences are invaluable and cannot be easily duplicated.

The future is bright, with leaders in technology driving innovation forward! NewRocket’s AI Way Path to Success was created for leaders like you. As leaders, we have the power to shape the future. Let's continue to support each other, seize the opportunities AI presents, and shape the future together.

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Ready to embark on your journey with a trusted Elite Partner?  Book a consultation to discover how NewRocket can help you modernize processes, maximize technology investments, and ultimately boost productivity and service efficiency.

NewRocket is proud to lead by example in the ServiceNow ecosystem as an Elite partner, and we look forward to continuing this journey of excellence, innovation, and success.

About the Author

Teresa Purdy is a purpose-driven service leader focused on client success with over 20 years of experience transforming organizations, projects, and teams. Follow her on LinkedIn