5 Things that changed my Career Trajectory

In the last month, I achieved a significant career milestone that I have been working towards for over four years. It got me thinking about how many awesome things have happened in my career. I decided to write this post to encourage anyone feeling stuck in their careers and remind myself of what has helped me so far.
 
In this blog post, I will share the five things I did in my career that helped me grow. Check out my other "Her Career" blogs for tips and tricks for a successful career.

#1: Investing in learning new skills
About 12 years ago, I decided to go back and get my Masters degree while working full-time. This decision set me on a more elevated path than I imagined. I enjoy learning and am very fortunate to be in a place where I can acquire knowledge and skills. I have completed many certifications, learned skills on the job, and shared them with others.
 
Reflection questions

• What professional skills have you acquired over the past five years? How did they help your Career progression?
• What new skills would you like to learn over the next three years? 

 
#2: Owning my career development
At the start of my career, I learned a lesson that I had held close to my heart. It is my responsibility to plan and drive my career. Giving up control of your Career development automatically puts you in the passenger seat and observer mode. As part of my annual planning, I set career goals that guide my actions. I am very committed to making progress professionally.  
 
Reflection questions

• What intentional moves have you made in your career so far?
• Where do you want to go next in your career? 

 
#3: Taking on stretch opportunities 
In 2017, when I was asked to lead a Global Program Management Office, I said no because I thought the task was too big for me. The fear of failure made me almost miss out on a great opportunity. After months of contemplating, I realized that I was the best-suited person for the role, and it was a significant growth opportunity for me. Over the last four years, I created my role and worked through the trying times of doing things that have never been done before.
 
Reflection questions

• What opportunities have you said no to? Why did you say no?
• How will you embrace stretch opportunities? 

 
#4: Having my support network and village
The people who have been my companions on my career journey have been one of the most significant contributors to my success. I am grateful for the Mentors, Sponsors, and Teammates who have taught me a lot and supported my ambitions. Having people, I can talk to about the challenges I am facing and celebrate successes with made my journey amazing.
 
Reflection questions

• Who are the people that support you as you navigate your career?
• How have they helped you so far? 

 
#5: Doing work that I enjoy
There have been seasons in my professional life where I have enjoyed work and other seasons when I did less fun things. I have learned to lean into my strengths and know what brings me joy at work. Doing work that aligns with my personal mission of helping others thrive professionally gives me a lot of fulfillment. There are still elements of my job that I do not enjoy. However, I enjoy a large part of it, and I look forward to whatever my next career move will be.
 
Reflection questions

• What aspects of your job do you enjoy? Why do you enjoy them? 
• What would you like to do more of in your next role? 

 
Final Thoughts
I feel very fortunate to have had great professional experiences. My experiences have been influenced by the intentional planning of my career, having my support community, and focusing on doing work I enjoy. We spend a lot of time at work, and I really hope that we all start enjoying work a little more.