this morning i went to a breakfast for women in business, focused on the generational differences in the workforce and featuring six women leaders, in the community and in their industries (moderated by jean enersen of king 5!) the flow of the conversation with the panel actually leaned a lot towards mentorship - the importance of finding great mentors and always being a mentor to other women. because of the cultural differences between the generations - technology, world issues, war, politics - we can all benefit from learning and teaching each other. i cannot tell you how inspiring it was to hear all of these businesswomen speak of their challenges and successes, tackling the gender stereotypes of being women in leadership while always keeping focused on what's most important to them, whether it's achievements, family or innovation.
my first mentor in business was my boss during my internship at DSA. he taught me so much about so many different things in business. to this day, i tell my interns about my favorite piece of advice he gave me.
"when you're ever in doubt, act as if"
i've been in countless situations - interviews, leading committee meetings, speaking in front of the audience at my events, negotiating, brainstorming sessions - scared out of my mind that i didn't know what i was doing. that single, simple piece of advice helped me project the confidence i needed to win over the trust of whoever i needed to. just because i didn't have the experience didn't mean i couldn't do it!
of course, my closest mentors are always my family, from my mom, grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, cousins to my amazing boyfriend. i learn worlds from them every day of my life, and they look to me for guidance and knowledge in return. when i was starting college and everyone was telling me to go be a lawyer, doctor, biophysicist...it was my mom who said:
"i don't care what you do...just make sure you don't need anyone but yourself to get by in life."
how genius is that?
i've only been out in the working world for a couple of years after college, but i've been able to accomplish so much and have had so many opportunities come to me thanks to the support of my many mentors. i am always open to being there for other women (and men!) as their mentor as well. i don't think anyone can get anywhere on their own and i am all about sharing knowledge and helping others!
i know there is a segment of the american population who could care less about "sex & the city" the movie. i am not one of them, i am taking my mom today LOL. BUT last night j and i went to the movies for another movie we'd been waiting to see...
