My top advice for everyone is simple yet powerful: always surround yourself with peers you can look up to. This idea has been key to my personal and professional growth, and I believe it can greatly impact your career path. There's a special feeling when you're in a room with people you admire for their knowledge and skills. It's like you become smarter just by being around them. This kind of environment not only gives you many chances to learn but also pushes you to become the best version of yourself. Being part of a group of exceptional individuals naturally motivates you to improve. You'll want to match their level of expertise, creativity, and hard work. This ongoing challenge keeps you growing and improving all the time. Also, within such a group, you're likely to find mentors – people who can offer valuable guidance, share their experiences, and help you navigate your career. A good mentor can make a huge difference in shaping your professional journey. Remember the saying, "If you're the smartest person in the room, then you're in the wrong room." Take this idea to heart. Look for places where you can learn, grow, and be inspired by those around you. It's in these settings that you'll find the best opportunities for both personal and professional development.

From being a mere graduate to immersing myself in real software challenges in one corner of the world, and then transcending continents to make my mark in the software industry once again as a Software Engineer at Nokia, my journey over the years is not just a testament to my hard work and ambitions, but also a reminder that we are capable of achieving far beyond our initial expectations when we summon the courage to step out of our comfort zones. I firmly believe that each of us can benefit from embracing that courage from time to time, as it is often the catalyst that propels us towards new opportunities and greater heights.

A strong support system has a tremendous effect on one's career development as well as mental health. It helps us better cope with stress, boost confidence, and improve performance when facing career challenges. Networking, mentorship, and engaging with diverse groups can significantly influence professional growth.