Jane Lang

Background

About Jane Lang

I vividly recall sitting at my first mahogany desk in American Samoa nine years ago, a point in my life I never imagined would lead me to where I am today. If I could share advice with that enthusiastic girl declaring herself an official adult, here are five lessons I've learned that I wish I had known: 1.**Mistakes are not failures.** View each mistake as a learning opportunity and a stepping stone towards improvement. True failure comes when you choose to give up. Utilize and maximize all available resources, as education extends beyond formal degrees. 2.**Manage your mindset.** Your greatest competitor is yourself. Remember, it’s not about what you lack but what you can contribute. Stay focused on your work, as others are striving to achieve their own goals. Don’t be too hard on yourself, and cherish the genuine connections you build at work. 3.**Embrace rejection as redirection.** A "no" can lead you to a better path. This doesn’t mean you should abandon your goals after receiving feedback; instead, reassess and develop alternate plans to stay on track. 4.**Practice patience.** Everyone's journey is unique. Comparing yourself to others can hinder your progress. Focus on cultivating your own path, as the right opportunities will come with time. 5.**Prioritize your health.** Mental, emotional, and physical well-being is essential to your performance. Don’t hesitate to take time off when you're feeling overwhelmed; returning refreshed will allow you to give your best. Now, as an admin with the VA Pacific Islands Health Care System in Honolulu, Hawaii, I reflect on my journey of exploring new work environments, networking with business-minded individuals, and acquiring new skills. The journey continues.