In this latest Think Education podcast episode, Judith and Chris talk to Sharon Davies-Smith, College Director/Principal and Chief Operating Officer – The College, Swansea University. In addition to this being a fascinating conversation, it has been a few months since we spoke to somebody from Wales and this could clearly not be allowed to stand any longer! Sharon talked about her background and journey through education, hall tutor, teacher, commercial buyer for Sainsbury’s and Next and then back to education to her current role as Chief Worrier at Swansea University.  We explored her journey and reflected on how, as if often the case, things make complete sense when seen in reverse.  Sharon also talked about the need to be assertive and put yourself forward for opportunities and how this was, and remains today, a challenge that faces many women. Sharon reflected on the work in progress that is achieving work-life balance and understanding what things you can let go, what to fight for and how to know the difference.  This is such a relevant topic, now so perhaps more than ever as we openly acknowledge the need to understand mental health and wellbeing.  A professional should not be judged purely on their output as this way madness lies. We then asked Sharon about her recent holiday (the first one in years) to Japan and how she had approached planning for this, how she had found the experience and the need for distance from work in order to recharge and experience something completely new.   It is OK to allow yourself to care a little less at times.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-davies-smith-612b12b3/?originalSubdomain=uk   #leadership #timemanagement #wellbeing #motivation #prepare #mentorship #mentalhealth