This year’s International Women’s Month had me reflect on my career and have me feeling very grateful to those who played an instrumental role in me enjoying the successful career that I have today. A career that’s been fundamental to the wonderful life I’m living – that almost didn’t happen. As we are closing out this month I’d like to thank every one of these individuals.
There is an African Proverb that summarizes what I believe about life in general and more specifically about work life: If you want to go fast, go alone, but if you want to go far, go together.
There are four things that people did for me over the past 15+ years that stand out above everything else. When we do these things for others, we can also help them reach their full potential. It is i) believing in others, ii) being a mentor who gives constructive feedback, iii) giving opportunities and iv) giving support.
Believing in me
I’ve had people who believed in me, even before I believed in myself. And they told me so. That made all the difference. There was a time when I was a 20-something year old struggling journalist in Bloemfontein who wasn’t sure that I could make a financial success on my own. I did not really have strong financially independent female role models. But, my business school Professor Helena van Zyl believed in me. When I joined SABMiller Len Volschenk believed in me – and told me so. That made all the difference.
2) Being a mentor who gives feedback
Feedback is the greatest gift and key to success. Thank you to everyone who has cared enough about me to give me thoughtful feedback. Dan Werth for so much coaching and feedback. Elina Vives for direct in-the-moment feedback. So many others. Thank you.
3) Giving me opportunities
You can only grow and develop if there is someone willing to give you an opportunity. Someone who is willing to make a connection. To send an e-mail of recommendation. To make a phone call. Thank you for everyone who has given me opportunities – some of them listed below.
4) Supporting me
Young eagles are pushed out of their mom’s nest at a young age and they have to learn to fly. But they are not worried – as she is always right there beside them. Someone has their back. Thank you to everyone who has had my back over the years. Especially when I was not in the room. Len Volschenk. John Guidroz - you taught me so much about that.
The reality is that one’s ability to flourish in the workplace is directly related to the support they have at home. I have the privilege of a rewarding career and healthy family life because of the support of my amazing husband DJ Ryan. I am grateful for a partner who believes in equality. Who is not threatened. Just supportive and proud. I’m proud to be raising a son that sees how his parents are equal partners.
Thank you to those who have been walking with me. Let’s ignite others so they become what they might not even know they can become.
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