To My Younger Corporate Self…

"Surely, by now, we should be teaching people it's your career to run. You are the CEO of your life and career." These powerful words from Liz Ryan, CEO and founder of Human Workplace, resonated deeply during our recent episode of WomenShare. Reflecting on my early corporate days, I realized how much I wish I had internalized this message sooner.

Looking back, I see a younger version of myself, eager to climb the corporate ladder, often at the expense of my own well-being and personal goals. I was operating under the assumption that my career was something dictated by the company, not something I actively shaped. Simply walking through doors that opened because I thought that was what I needed to do. 

Here are the key lessons I wish I could impart to my younger self in regard to my career:

I am in charge of my career.

• I had more control over my career than I thought I did, and you too can be the architect of your career, not a passive participant.
• Don't wait for your company to define your trajectory. Actively seek opportunities that align with your values and aspirations.
• Prioritize your personal growth and well-being alongside your professional development. I hired a coach in 2019 and that’s when things really started to shift. This is not about being selfish, but about being self-aware and valuing your own time and talent.

Challenge conventional corporate practices.

• Don't accept dysfunctional corporate norms as inevitable. Question them.
• Advocate for a more human-centric workplace where employees are valued and empowered.
• HR should be a partner in employee growth, not just a policy enforcer.
• If the company is not aligned with these values, it is not where I (you) belong.

Break free from outdated paradigms.

• Don't let fear dictate your career choices. Embrace a more entrepreneurial mindset, even within a corporate setting.  If I had done that earlier in my career, I would have become an entrepreneur much earlier.
• Explore freelance opportunities or side projects to expand your skills and broaden your horizons.
• Recognize that the traditional 9-to-5 model is not the only path to success. It took 2020 for me to understand how truly productive I could be. Some people thrive in a traditional model, some don’t. I suggest trying both to see what best serves you.
• Don't be afraid to try new things and fail. Failing provides valuable data.

Claim personal power.

• Know your worth and don't be afraid to assert it.
• Take control of your narrative and actively shape your career story.
• Pursue meaningful work that aligns with your passions and values. For me that meant breaking free from the “golden handcuffs.”
• Don't be afraid to say "no" to opportunities that don't serve your goals.

Seek out bosses, mentors, and co-workers who empower.

• Look for managers who act as enablers, removing obstacles and fostering your growth.
• True leaders empower their teams to develop their strengths and reach their full potential.
• Value environments where your talents are recognized and nurtured.
• A good leader will care about you as a person, not just a cog in a machine.

Liz Ryan's message is a call to action for all professionals, especially women, to take ownership of their careers and lives. By embracing our roles as CEOs, we can create more fulfilling and impactful career journeys.

Here at WomenShare podcast, we strive to offer conversations and resources for anyone looking to transform their career trajectory within the financial services industry. Let's continue to push boundaries and empower each other to create workplaces where everyone can thrive.