At university, I wanted to be a doctor. I couldn't imagine doing anything else. And, to be honest, when practicing as a doctor, I loved talking to all kinds of people and helping them improve their health. However, the work-life balance was abysmal. When I was in university, I wished someone had asked me what kind of work-life balance I wanted. Really sat me down and asked me to envision my whole life, not just my career, and encouraged me to think about the big picture and where I'd be willing--or not--to make compromises. Because, as it turns out, I wasn't willing to sacrifice my marriage and my relationships with family and friends to be a doctor. That realization completely changed my career trajectory. So, I would encourage women to find themselves a friend, mentor, or family member who is very familiar with their career options and willing to ask them tough questions that holistically address what their lives will look like in 5, 10, and even 20 years time.
Navigating a professional career can often feel like sailing through uncharted waters. One piece of advice that really would have made a difference early in my career is the importance of negotiating your salary from the very start. Often, women hesitate to negotiate for better pay due to fear of seeming pushy or not being liked. But what many don’t realize is that failing to negotiate can lead to significant earnings loss over the course of a career, which compounds with raises and promotions that are percentage-based. Additionally, it’s crucial to prioritize building a diverse network. Early in my career, I underestimated the power of connections outside my immediate field. With time, I've come to understand that opportunities can come from the most unexpected places. Cultivating relationships across different industries can open doors you never anticipated and provide unique insights that can significantly propel your career forward. Embrace every opportunity to connect with others, and don’t shy away from reaching out to leaders or peers whom you admire. Remember, your network can often be your net worth, in terms of both financial gains and professional growth.