New Year, New Job
It's a new year, and I am so excited that I am starting this year in a new job. I am the new Chief Equity and Impact Officer at The Mom Project.
As Chief Equity and Impact Officer I will be focused on working with our client to advance economic opportunity for mothers, deepening my work as an advocate for mothers and historically underrepresented and leveraging our amazing L&D team internally and externally to amplify all of the Mom Projects offerings to have real, substantive and sustainable impact.
Since this blog is about MY Grown Woman life, I thought I would share this news with a healthy dose of vulnerability. Because oftentimes as women, when we are given opportunities, even perfect opportunities, we are so busy asking questions that we miss the blessings.
I was astounded to receive an offer that seemed tailor-made for my capabilities, yet I couldn't quite savor the blessing in the moment. Anxiety overtook me as I considered leaving behind my amazing team, so much so I wasn't considering the outstanding individuals I would now have the opportunity to work with. In order to get truly enthusiastic about this incredible opportunity, I had to stop and ask myself two questions: How did this happen, and how can I honor and maximize this opportunity?
My Grown Woman Principles gave me the answers I sought.
How did this happen, well I'd like to believe it happened because I:
Speak Intentionally: As a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging advocate, I actively and boldly use my voice to advocate for those who have been historically excluded. I do this proudly, with purpose, and unapologetically. This approach aligns with my company's mission and my CEO's passion, and what a gift.
Cultivate Community: The DEIB space is both large and small. I've been lucky to work with incredible individuals who are as committed to authentically advancing DEIB and amplifying the voices of those who are committed to substantive and sustainable solutions. That community of individuals has not only provided me with support, knowledge, and a platform, but they have made me better.
Lead with Passion: I have tried my best to make sure my time and actions are aligned with my personal values and goals and what I am most passionate about which is living a life of positive impact.
Answering these questions thoughtfully, reflecting on my accomplishments, and gaining some clarity of perspective proved to be incredibly helpful. It alleviated some guilt, and if impostor syndrome was thinking about rearing its ugly head, it got annihilated.
So then, what next? How do I honor and maximize this opportunity?
It is time to:
Have Faith. As a God girl, I believe His timing is always impeccable, and His plans for me are always exceedingly and abundantly more than anything I can imagine. My whole life is a testament to this belief.
Embrace Humility: There is already a whole list of folks who have lined up to teach me new things because I didn't hesitate to reach out and ask for help.
Pivot Purposefully: My focus and scope have changed, and I am embracing the change and pivoting with purpose. I am buzzing with ideas, and I can't wait to expand my impact.
The lesson: When your time comes and IT WILL, you may not feel ready, and you may have questions, so what will you do? Here's what you will do: be bold, showcase your brilliance and own your badass. That's what I am going to do in this new year, in my new job.