I think I'm about to get everything I want at work, and it's terrifying.
Next month, I'll be with my employer for four years. In that time, the organization has gone through two Executive Directors (we're now on our third) and between the support of a new Board Chair and his guidance, the company has moved from being a fairly toxic one in a lot of senses to a more well-functioning, respectful, and productive one.
It's been a long road to get to this point, in the sense that I was written up about 18-months ago shortly after I was promoted (coincidently) for trying to implement a series of systems around data collection and metrics that I've been able to implement anyway in the last year or so, and have received great praise for. As I said, a long road and the experience working there in the past in comparison to right now is like night and day.
Based on the praise I've received specific to these new systems, I was getting the sense that I would again be promoted during my review this coming month. Some other things have occurred and it looks like I'll also be gaining an additional member to my team to manage.
It's thrilling because these are all things that I've been outspoken about, and it feels great to be validated after so much strum and drang. But I'm terrified, what if I get all of these things that I've worked for and wanted and I fall flat on my face? Any advice on how to stand up straight and wear the crown proudly would be appreciated.
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16 Comments
16 Comments
Carrie Topolski
2.24k
Empowering women and beyond!
02/20/21 at 4:34PM UTC
You've already proven that you can do this. Why doubt yourself now after everything you've been through? Stand tall! You made a difference and you will continue to make a difference. Nothing is changing but maybe some added responsibilities. You totally got this and you've already proven that. Straighten that crown girl!
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Anonymous
02/20/21 at 4:39PM UTC
While it's normal to be nervous and doubting. But you need to remember that you are an agent of change and the evolution of the company has your fingerprints all over it. With strength and hard work you have implemented changes that are at the core of the business. Downplay your contributions all you want but you are key to the success. So let's shine up that crown and dust of those white gloves. It's time for that parade wave! You've earned the right to all of it. Part of being a leader is accepting your place WITH ACCOLADES and taking that bow. Congratulations!
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Maryam
118
Senior Engineering Leader
02/20/21 at 4:42PM UTC
Congratulations! It’s wonderful to see things fall into place. There’s no reason to doubt yourself. You know what you want and you have motivation and grit. Whatever obstacles come your way, you will find a way. Don’t hold back on using your support network and get any required help when you need it.
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Amy Carothers
483
Brand Marketing and Publishing Manager
02/20/21 at 5:09PM UTC
First all, congratulations as making it through a toxic environment to now having your work validated is a something to celebrate. That being said, the bundles of nerves mixed with excitement is to be expected. You've had highs and lows at this company and right now, it seems that you're worried the high won't last and the rug will again be pulled out beneath your feet. While it's understandable, try not to approach the new opportunity with past expectations. Be mindful but look forward not back.
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Melissa
183
Helping women unlock their potential
02/20/21 at 5:30PM UTC
Congratulations! How awesome - You're getting what you want. You know the saying? "Be careful what you pray for...you might just get it" :) I know how scary it can be but dig into your inner courage which you've shown over the past 18 months. Write down your successes (small and large) and keep it close to you. When the inner-doubt or the demons start creeping into your thoughts, look at the list and celebrate them. The road won't be straight but it sounds like you have a few fans on the executive team that will help you along the way. Don't be afraid to ask questions to be sure you're aligned with their strategy. You've got this! Keep us updated! - Melissa
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Lminnaker
22
02/20/21 at 5:40PM UTC
Congratulations! It’s natural to be nervous because you care about your work. Be open to managements suggestions and don’t look backwards, the Company made changes for a reason
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Clydene Horrigan
374
Process improvement is my game
02/20/21 at 5:42PM UTC
Congratulations! My motto is to apply what I know to things I don’t know. While you may be presented with new things, if you break it apart, you will find it’s not completely new. Apply strategies that have helped you get where you are and you will do fine. When you get stuck, try talking it out with your boss or a peer and be sure to share what you’ve already tried. Oh - and try to find a mentor who you can work with and use her experiences too.
You’ve got this!
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1 Reply
Ebony Murphy
34
02/22/21 at 3:44PM UTC
This is great
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kellyo
87
Coach and Strategist to highly motivated people
02/20/21 at 9:04PM UTC
First, yes- congrats! I would imagine that part of your trepidation comes from the past. You described getting promoted for some big changes that you designed and implemented, shortly thereafter you were written up? Hence, the toxic culture you described. This may be where your fears are coming from. Remind yourself, this is a new healthier place now.
Breathe into the forward movement. It is a result of your effort snd grit and the new, healthier leadership. Ask yourself- what is the worst thing that can happen and how would I handle it?
Please do follow up and let us know how things progress- and they will.
All the best to you!
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Kathleen Fisher
54
02/21/21 at 3:16PM UTC
Congratulations!! Mel Robbins (Author, Speaker etc.) has a great trick I love. Put a mirror somewhere in your office at the same height as your face. Preferably somewhere where you can look into it privately. Every time you leave your office, look in the mirror, smile at your self and give herself a high five. You actually touch the mirror with the palm of your hand. Do the same at home and anywhere you see a mirror. It serves as a great reminder that YOU’VE GOT THIS. You are enough and you deserve and have worked really hard to get where you are. If you mentor someone, teach them to do the same. Teach this trick to any woman you know. ?
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Deb Wiley
140
Educating children with cognitive disabilities
02/22/21 at 1:54PM UTC
Congratulations - with growth comes some struggles, but after the struggles comes the sunshine. You know that you are building an environment that your subordinates will talk about years in the future - and this is the environment to whichthey will compare all of their other work experiences. I still talk about the best boss I ever had and I worked for him in the 1990's. Remember to thank them for doing a good job. Talk about their successes as well as their struggles. Good management requires both.
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Joycelyn M. Siame
156
Experienced Admin.
02/22/21 at 2:03PM UTC
Congratulations! If they didn't think you were worthy, you would have never gotten the acknowledgement and praise for the work that you have done. Secondly, with growth, there is always a healthy level of fear; do not let it get to you. Keep the same level of confidence you had when advocating for better systems and practices, and you will go far!
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Vidya Raja
39
Chemical Engineer in Canada, Dancer
02/22/21 at 2:42PM UTC
The fact that you've made it this far in a short span of 4 years speaks highly of your capabilities and potential. Wear your new hats proudly and keep on going. Just remember to be humble and help others also achieve success like you did by leading the way for them. You will do great and best of luck!
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Anonymous
02/22/21 at 3:30PM UTC
Don't let your Inner Critic win! Your confidence and skill got your there and deserve all the kudos you are receiving. Keep going - you got this (and then some)!
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Marla Fields
74
Semiconductor industry engineer herding the cats
02/22/21 at 6:14PM UTC
Congrats! If u could make change under a toxic environment imagine what u can do in a good supportive environment? Instead of what could go wrong...think about how amazing it could be if things went right!
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Rebecca Gale-Gonzalez
25
Going places
02/24/21 at 5:30AM UTC
Leadership is, above all, service! Wear the crown may not be the best metaphor. Be decent to your people. Build up your team members, like you wished others would do for you. Continue the good work you've started that got you recognized in the first place. Never make assumptions and try to stay focused on solutions not blame. Things will not always go as planned...be ready to mitigate...never blame a subordinate...the buck stops with you.
User edited comment on 02/24/21 at 5:37AM UTC
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