Leading a project (from a technical sense), especially when things outside of your control take over, has taught me a lot over the past 8-9 months. I've been working on two initiatives. It all started with extension work. The extension work was explicit, clear on what was meant to be completed.
Once starting, the work was manageable. I would lead two juniors in the development. And learning that when you have capable juniors, you won't need to explicitly tell them everything. They can manage on their own. I directed them on what needed to be completed, they're able to complete it.
Then, about 6 months ago, an opportunity came up. Opportunities are rare moments when something new comes into your vicinity. I picked it up, and the next thing I knew, I had gone from assisting to owning the project. Not just part of the problem, but the entire workflow was mine to fix. It was an opportunity that came in a bad circumstance.
Learnings:
- I'm a capable leader when situations are going well (I'm sure everyone is). I stumbled and failed when pressure came about. I can see why deadlines can put a lot of pressure on someone.
- I'm pretty good when left to my own devices and self-guided. I did occasionally ask for help from my senior. They have the experience I lack.
- I didn't delegate as much as I could have. This stems from if you want a job done right, you do it yourself and give the non-essential tasks to others.
- If you believe you won't fail, you haven't really failed. You're showing grit and resolve to not let it be the way it's anticipated to be.