action

As we conclude the first month of a new year, have you been recharged, revitalized, and preparing for action to make changes in your laboratory? Often, despite our initial inspiration, the multitude of challenges that come our way in the new year can make it difficult to sustain momentum for the changes we envision. One valuable lesson I've learned over the years is the importance of establishing connections with other managers, as we frequently encounter similar problems that we strive to address.

Learning from the experiences of fellow managers, sharing strategies that have either succeeded or failed, can be instrumental in achieving lasting change that continues to fuel our enthusiasm. Networking with other lab managers in your organization, on your campus, or your office complex can be as simple as grabbing a cup of coffee with a peer or attending a vendor sponsored networking event.  My involvement with ALMA exemplifies this. Engaging in discussions during local meetings and the ALMA Annual Conference revealed that my concerns were not unique, fostering a supportive environment for mutual learning. Don't shy away from these experiences, as they can be career changing.

Moreover, the evolving landscape of challenges posed by AI prompts us to stay informed and glean insights from others on how to adapt. As we begin 2024, there's still an opportunity to make a conscious choice to broaden your network by actively engaging with other laboratory leaders through ALMA, facilitating a collaborative approach to navigating the changes ahead.  For more than 40 years, ALMA has been helping laboratory managers share their challenges, ideas, and experiences. Let's connect at ALMA2024 at the UNC Friday Conference Center, Chapel Hill, NC, September 24-26, 2024, and continue the conversation.