3 questions with…

What’s one rule you’ve broken in your career that paid off—professionally or personally?

I ditched having 5- or 10- year career plans years ago. The most exceptional things that have happened to me at work have been unexpected. I find that my imagination is smaller than my potential and can only inhibit me. I only commit to curiosity, remaining nimble and investing in deep relationships.

What is your power phrase?

“Stop. Breathe. Think. Choose.”
It reminds me that other people’s urgency is not my own. I have the power to decide how I will respond, be thoughtful, and not just react. It also helps me manage through stressful situations and focus on my breath.

What did you stop doing in order to grow, personally or professionally?

Since I became a mom, I had to learn the power of saying no. Stopping saying an automatic “yes” when people ask for my time has heightened my awareness of what I actually want and need. I am a people pleaser, so I have to rely on tools. My go-to response is “let me get back to you.” It gives me time to actually think about what is on my plate, while not letting the other person down right away.