What is Brika Ltd?
An explanation…
Who is Brika?
Brika is my nickname. Perhaps you could say it’s my alter ego. Originating in high school, it took hold in college, and has followed me into the future. Perhaps I could say that Brika represents more of my true self than Lauren ever has, as I spent the first 30+ years of my life trying to fit Lauren into a box, while Brika had much more freedom to explore. Feeling as though I had to work with two different personas was tricky, and for me it created a huge delta between my work and personal life.
What is Brika Ltd?
Brika Ltd represents the convergence of my work-self, full of skills and experience to do great work, and my true-self, the part of me that holds the passion and care for the work I choose to do. After nearly a decade working for the same company in the same corporate function, I was experiencing a great deal of dissatisfaction. I realized I’d outgrown the entire experience. Was this it for me? After months of careful consideration, I built up the courage to take a chance, to leave my decade-long career to focus on doing the work I wanted to do, while steering my personas toward harmony.
It would be unfair to ignore the impact the COVID-19 pandemic had on my decision. With uncertainty and isolation, my priorities up to this point were put under the microscope. Questions about how we value and protect our employees safety and wellbeing, how we share and receive information, how we create true connection in a virtual-first world… these were all curiosities and concerns that welled up inside of me. In the downtime that COVID-19 allowed, I was able to get really clear on redirecting my career toward one of purpose and integrity, guided by my own values and vision.
Thus, I created Brika Ltd. I partnered with a few organizations initially while allowing myself time to be curious; to read, to seek out new perspectives, to network and have conversations. I took a dozen trainings I’d wanted to take for years, but never had time or support to pursue. I made a commitment to not only better myself, but to support others in bettering themselves, and to reroute my career in a direction more in-tune with who I want to show up as in this world.
What does this mean?
My goal is to pursue meaningful work that I want to do; work that both Lauren and Brika can be proud of. Work that challenges me, but also allows me to take time when I need it to support my family and my friends. I will network, partner, and learn from others in similar industries. I will grow and evolve, and continue to reflect on my trajectory, with less fear about where I’m going, knowing that I’m taking a chance on my own inner compass.
Thank you for reading! If you’ve had a similar experience with your work/life, purpose and meaning, feel free to reach out to me at lauren@brikaltd.com! I love connecting with new people, and hearing other people’s stories, revelations, and brave life moments.
What should I call you?
Call me Lauren. Call me Brika. As long as you call me.
;)
