The fourth quarter of 2009 has waylaid me; where did the time go?!?
This seems like a good time to evaluate the progress on my professional/technical goals for the year:
Begin answering questions in forums and newsgroups
I have been remiss on this goal. I continue to draw immense benefit from forums and newsgroups, yet I haven’t overcome my lurker nature. It’s time for this to change. I will create a few accounts this weekend and start small by attempting to answer one question per week.
Begin delivering technical presentations
This one has gone quite well, better than I could have hoped. So far this year, I have been the featured presenter for three user group meetings and I spoke at SQLSaturday #17. I’m also scheduled to speak at two more user group meetings, SQLSaturday #25, and the PASS Community Summit 2009!
Begin publishing a blog
You see the results before you. I need to start achieving some consistency and frequency in posting. I have so many good ideas, it’s time to increase the priority of blog posting in my crowded schedule!
Begin participating social computing
I am really enjoying Twitter (I’m @SQLServerSleuth)! It is my primary source for blog posts and whitepapers to read. I’ve learned a great deal from the other SQL Server professionals and I’ve had the chance to help out a few that I’d never met.
I have a LinkedIn profile, but I haven’t started connecting to others or joining groups.
Find a way to make it back to the PASS Summit this year
I am tremendously blessed, honored, and humbled to be speaking at the PASS Community Summit 2009 this year! To add to it, my employer has graciously agreed to cover my travel expenses! My wife and I saved quite a bit of money in our “conferences” budget category, but now those funds can be put to good use in another way!
Get the test server up and running
I purchased a refurbished Dell server in mid-2008 and it has proven valuable several times this year. I have several blog posts planned on this topic.
Play a bigger role in the local SQL Server community
I consider this a success for the year. I have done more this year in my leadership position for NTSSUG. In addition to maintaining the web site, I have also run one of the meetings, helped to line up speakers and sponsors, and have been the featured presenter for several meetings. I’ve also made several new friends!
I am also working hard on the committee that is bring a SQLSaturday event to North Texas.
Overall, I’m pleased with my progress. I’m going to dedicate more time to this blog and to participating in forums and newsgroups.
