Hilaw. It is probably one of the most frightening words for young professionals like me. It’s probably the imposter syndrome talking, making me wonder if I really am ready for more challenging roles after two years as a Management Trainee.
 

However, I realized that looking back, this is the same feeling I had before I joined CPFI last September 2020. It felt surreal to be one of the pioneers of the Management Trainee Program, but at the same time, it was a nerve-racking experience as we rotated through different functions of which I had little to no knowledge about. 
 

We all started in Domestic Sales where we learned the basics of the business, most especially relationship building with our customers. As a newbie, I felt like I would always make a mistake. I was afraid, but I did it anyway. Now, I am more focused on turning my mistakes into progress rather than counting them. 
 

After six months, I joined Dairy Finance. It was probably the most intimidating function for me since numbers and I have a love-hate relationship. I was so nervous, but I made it anyway. Hence, my financial acumen was enhanced through business cases, among others. 
 

Lastly, I was transferred to Sardines Marketing after four months. Here, I had more exposure to cross-functional teams and project management. It took me some time trying to apply the college theories I learned into actual business output. I was confused, but I tried anyway. As I took on more projects, I gained a better grasp of the process and the ins and outs of the business.
 

As you can see, every time I cross to another post, it makes me feel uncomfortable and afraid. It makes me feel slow-witted and undeserving to be there. But I realized I am exactly where I need to be, because the things that scare us make us grow the most. 
 

Now that I have graduated and been promoted to Product Manager, the feeling of being hilaw is here again. Except this time, I am less terrified and more confident instead. What keeps me strong in facing this new horizon are the bunch of lessons and support I have had during those past two years of being a Management Trainee.