The Power of Self-Care: My European Adventures Between Tech Events
Recharging, Exploring, and Sharing Knowledge So My Kevlar Stays Intact
The world is always moving fast for me, so it’s easy to overlook the importance of self-care. We often find ourselves caught up in work, deadlines, and the constant drive for productivity. However, taking the time to step away, unplug, and recharge is vital. Not only for my mental and physical well-being but also for my creativity and professional growth. Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to spend a couple of weeks traveling through Europe, exploring the vibrant cities of Amsterdam, Berlin, Prague, Vienna, Trieste, and finally, the charming coastal town of Rovinj.
This journey was more than a vacation; it was a deliberate act of self-care, a chance to destress, reclaim some brain cells, and re-energize for the year ahead. I had already been accepted to speak at two events, Redgate Summit in Amsterdam and HROUG, an Oracle event in Croatia and while considering how to take some time off, I realized I could just stay in Europe between the two events and have a considerable vacation in Europe.
The Importance of Self-Care and Taking Vacation
Self-care isn’t just about bubble baths, hobbies or time with friends, but it can also be about recognizing when you need a break and allowing yourself the space to enjoy it. Taking a vacation, especially one that immerses you in new cultures and experiences, offers a powerful reset. In each of the cities I visited, from wandering the canals of Amsterdam to soaking up the museums of Berlin, a fantastic “botel” on the river in Prague, I found new perspectives and renewed inspiration. I was on my own for much of this trip and simply enjoyed museums at my own pace, much of the time with noise-canceling headphones on and it brought me immense peace. These moments reminded me that stepping away from the routine is not a luxury, but a necessity for sustained creativity and professional fulfillment.
Destressing and Reclaiming Brain Cells
Travel has a unique way of clearing the mind and invigorating the spirit. Whether it was sipping coffee in a café in Prague or getting lost in a museum in Amsterdam, I felt the stress of the previous months melt away. These experiences allowed me to recharge, return with more energy, and approach tech (and life!) with a fresh outlook. For anyone feeling stretched thin or running on empty, I can’t emphasize enough how restorative a change of scenery can be.
Refreshed, Which Means Upcoming Keynotes
After a few weeks on vacation and with renewed energy, I’m thrilled to share that I have three keynotes coming up the last two months of the year:
Each of these events represents an exciting opportunity to connect, learn, and give back to the technical communities the incredible journey this year has been as a multiplatform and AI advocate with Redgate.
SQL Saturday Oregon
SQL Saturday Oregon is a vibrant gathering of data professionals, offering a welcoming space for learning and networking in the Portland/Southern Washington area. I’m honored to be delivering a keynote here for the 4th years in a row, sharing insights and encouraging others to invest in both their technical skills and personal well-being, all with an AI spin as we all pivot to our new reality.
PASS Summit
The PASS Summit stands as one of the premier events for data professionals worldwide. It brings together experts, enthusiasts, and innovators to share knowledge and explore the latest in the Microsoft data platform. The keynote will include the awesome Steve Jones and Laura Copeland. We’ll be introduced by the incredible Grant Fritchey, and the keynote theme should resonate deeply with the attendees on a truly geeky level- we’re doing a lot of demos, a lot of coding and automation with AI, so be ready!
UKOUG Super Sunday
Rounding out my keynote engagements is UKOUG Super Sunday on November 30th, a staple for Oracle professionals. This event offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with the UK Oracle community, discuss emerging trends, and inspire one another to grow and evolve within the field.
If 3 keynotes didn’t seem like enough, I will also be speaking at TechBash 2025 in the Poconos at the end of the month, (not a keynote!) and am one of the co-organizers for the Microsoft Data Platform DEI Neurodiversity Day on Oct. 23rd. Join me at Neurodiversity Day 2025 if you’re interested at: https://meetu.ps/e/PlccY/1YkfQ/i
The Value of Technical Communities: Microsoft and Oracle
Reflecting on my experiences, both as a traveler and a speaker, I’m reminded of the incredible value that technical communities bring. Whether it’s Microsoft, Oracle, DevOps or open source, these communities foster a culture of support, innovation, and shared growth. They provide a space where professionals can exchange ideas, solve problems, and celebrate achievements together.
Being part of these communities has enriched my career in countless ways. I’ve gained knowledge, built lasting friendships, and found inspiration in the collective wisdom of peers from around the globe. As I prepare to contribute to these upcoming events, I’m excited to give back, share what I’ve learned, and encourage others to make the most of these invaluable networks.
Take Care To Be Present
Self-care and community are not mutually exclusive, but deeply intertwined. By taking care of ourselves, we show up as our best selves for our communities. By engaging with others, we find motivation and purpose that fuels our personal and professional journeys. As I look forward to the year ahead, I’m grateful for the time spent exploring Europe, the opportunity to connect with fellow professionals at upcoming events, and the vibrant communities that continue to inspire and support us all.
