Photo by Vishal Modak
Every few years, the cycle repeats. The market dips, job opportunities shrink, and the threat of massive layoffs looms over us. We read the headlines, listen to the stories, and for some, face the stark reality of being let go. The advice that follows is always the same: “Keep up with the tech,” “AI will take your job,” “Reinvent yourself.” But how easy is that, especially for women?
Making a career change—even a small one—is a daunting challenge for anyone. For many women, it’s compounded by societal expectations and daily demands that often put our own professional growth on the back burner. So, how do we navigate this constant pressure to evolve? The answer lies in making a conscious commitment to ourselves.
Don’t Just Learn, Do.
The old adage that change is constant rings true, so we must embrace a path of continuous learning. Masterclasses and training videos are excellent starting points, but true impact comes from applying that knowledge. You may not have the chance to apply new skills at your current job, so it’s essential to create those opportunities for yourself.
- Get Certified: A certification isn’t just a piece of paper; it’s a validation of your skills and a clear signal to employers that you’re serious about your craft.
- Teach Others: The best way to solidify your own understanding is to teach someone else. Whether you’re leading a workshop or mentoring a junior colleague, sharing your knowledge reinforces it for you.
- Create Personal Projects: This is where you truly learn by doing. You’ll have to invest your time and possibly some money, but the experience and portfolio you build are invaluable.
Buy Back Your Time: A Radical Act of Selfishness
Another major hurdle for many women is a lack of time. We’re not afraid of hard work, but the daily grind often leaves little room for anything else. Our tendency to put ourselves last—whether it’s handling household chores or family commitments—is a major roadblock to professional development.
Ladies, it’s time to be a little selfish.
- Outsource and Delegate: Buy back your time by delegating tasks. Ask your family for help or consider hiring help. Your time is a finite resource; treat it as the most valuable asset you have.
- Treat Learning Like Work: Stop separating “work hours” from “learning hours.” If you treat self-improvement with the same urgency as a work project, you will find time for it. It’s much harder to motivate yourself to start “studying” once the workday is over.
Give Back and Be a Sponsor
One of my mentors, David Petty, once told me, “Be a sponsor, not a mentor.” He urged me to not just preach to others but to give them opportunities. I was incredibly fortunate to receive a major career opportunity right after my maternity leave. He saw my potential and believed in me, even with the challenges of being a new mother. For that, I am forever grateful.
Hopefully, I can be a sponsor for someone else just as he was for me. But for each and every one of you out there, let’s make a commitment to create opportunities for our fellow women. Don’t just give advice—give a chance.