Beyond the Flight Deck - July 9, 2024

Rediscovering Audacity

Welcome to this edition of "Beyond the Flight Deck," where we share personal stories, industry insights, and practical advice to support and elevate women in the aviation and aerospace industries. Our goal is to exponentially increase the number of women who work in and lead these industries. In our newsletter, we explore topics ranging from mentorship and career development to overcoming challenges and celebrating successes, while highlighting the diverse career paths available in aviation and aerospace. Today, we focus on the vital role of confidence and authenticity, and how reclaiming these qualities can significantly impact career success and personal fulfillment.

The Early Days: Audacity and Unwavering Confidence

When I first started my career in aviation, I was flat-out audacious. Fresh out of school, I had complete and total self-confidence. I wasn't afraid to ask for exactly what I wanted. My self-esteem was through the ceiling, and I carried myself with a sense of assurance that was both refreshing and empowering.

One of my early career highlights was working on a satellite program. Driven by my passion and unshakeable confidence, I boldly asked to be included in the launch team. Despite my very junior position, I believed in my abilities and wasn’t afraid to make my ambitions known. This audacity paid off—I was included in the launch team, and it became a defining moment in my career. My contributions were valued, and I felt a profound sense of accomplishment and belonging.

The Shift: Losing Confidence and Authenticity

As I progressed further in my career, something began to change. The initial audacity and self-confidence that had propelled me forward started to wane. The more I climbed the corporate ladder, the more I felt the pressure to conform to expectations that didn’t align with my true self. I began shape-shifting to become what I thought was expected of me, rather than staying true to my authentic self and my own aspirations.

This transformation wasn't immediate, but gradual. It was subtle enough that I didn't recognize it at first. I started second-guessing my decisions, doubting my capabilities, and seeking validation from others. My once-clear voice became clouded with uncertainty, and my career decisions began to reflect what I thought others wanted, not what I truly desired. This erosion of self-confidence led to a disconnect between who I was and who I felt I needed to be.

The Turning Point: Rediscovering Audacity

The turning point came when I realized the toll this shape-shifting was taking on my happiness and career satisfaction. I was no longer fulfilled by my work; I felt like an actor playing a role rather than a passionate professional. Recognizing this, I knew I had to make a change. It was time to reconnect with my authentic self and rediscover the audacity that had once defined me.

Here are some key steps I took to reclaim my confidence and authenticity:

Self-Reflection

Identifying Core Values: I spent time reflecting on my core values and what truly mattered to me in my career and life. This process involved asking myself critical questions about my passions, motivations, and long-term goals. Understanding my core values helped me realign my actions and decisions with what truly mattered to me.

Acknowledging Achievements: I revisited my past achievements to remind myself of my capabilities and the times when my audacity had led to success. Reflecting on these accomplishments helped rebuild my self-esteem and reminded me of the strength and confidence I once had.

Setting Boundaries

Defining Non-Negotiables: I established clear non-negotiables for my professional life, including maintaining work-life balance and prioritizing my well-being. These boundaries helped protect my time and energy, ensuring that I stayed true to my values and avoided burnout.

Saying No: I learned to say no to opportunities and roles that didn’t align with my values or career aspirations. This was crucial in maintaining my authenticity and focusing on what truly mattered to me.

Seeking Support

Mentorship and Allies: I sought out mentors and allies who supported my journey back to authenticity, providing guidance and encouragement. These relationships were instrumental in helping me navigate challenges and stay true to myself.

Professional Development: I invested in professional development programs that helped me rebuild my confidence and refine my skills. Continuous learning and growth were essential in maintaining my self-assurance and staying competitive in my field.

Authentic Leadership

Leading by Example: I committed to leading by example, embracing my true self and encouraging others to do the same. By being authentic, I hoped to inspire others to be true to themselves and their aspirations.

Transparent Communication: I practiced transparent communication, openly sharing my journey and struggles with colleagues and mentees. This openness fostered trust and created a supportive environment where others felt comfortable being themselves.

The Role of Mentorship in Building Confidence

Rediscovering my confidence wouldn’t have been possible without the support of mentors and allies. Mentorship plays a crucial role in helping individuals navigate their career paths and build the confidence needed to succeed. Here’s how mentorship can make a difference:

Guidance and Support

Career Navigation: Mentors provide valuable guidance on career development, helping mentees set goals, identify opportunities, and navigate challenges. This support is essential in building confidence and ensuring career growth.

Skill Development: Mentors help mentees develop the skills needed to succeed in their roles, providing training, resources, and feedback. This skill development is crucial in building competence and confidence.

Encouragement

Boosting Self-Esteem: Mentors offer encouragement and reassurance, boosting mentees’ confidence and helping them believe in their abilities. Positive reinforcement from a trusted mentor can make a significant difference in a mentee’s self-esteem.

Empowerment: Mentors empower mentees to take on new challenges and step outside their comfort zones. This empowerment is essential in building the courage to pursue ambitious goals and opportunities.

Networking

Expanding Professional Networks: Mentors connect mentees with valuable professional networks, opening doors to new opportunities and resources. Networking is crucial in advancing one’s career and building confidence in professional settings.

Visibility and Recognition: Mentors help mentees gain visibility and recognition within their organizations and industries. This visibility is important in building confidence and establishing a strong professional reputation.

Role Models

Inspiration and Motivation: Mentors serve as role models, demonstrating what is possible and inspiring mentees to pursue their goals with confidence. Seeing someone who has succeeded in a similar path provides motivation and a sense of possibility.

Learning from Experience: Mentors share their experiences and lessons learned, helping mentees avoid common pitfalls and navigate challenges more effectively. This shared wisdom is invaluable in building confidence and achieving success.

The Importance of Authenticity in the Workplace

Staying true to oneself is not only important for personal fulfillment but also for professional success. Authenticity in the workplace leads to:

Increased Job Satisfaction

Alignment with Values: When you are true to yourself, you are more likely to find fulfillment and satisfaction in your work. Aligning your actions and decisions with your core values creates a sense of purpose and meaning in your career.

Reduced Stress: Being authentic reduces the stress and anxiety associated with trying to conform to others’ expectations. Authenticity allows you to be yourself without the pressure of living up to someone else’s standards.

Better Performance

Engagement and Motivation: Authentic individuals are more engaged and motivated, leading to improved performance and productivity. When you are true to yourself, you are more likely to be passionate and committed to your work.

Creativity and Innovation: Authenticity fosters creativity and innovation by allowing individuals to think freely and express their unique perspectives. Being true to yourself encourages original thinking and problem-solving.

Stronger Relationships

Trust and Respect: Authenticity fosters trust and respect, leading to stronger relationships with colleagues and clients. When you are genuine, others are more likely to trust and respect you, creating a positive and collaborative work environment.

Effective Communication: Authentic individuals communicate more effectively, as they are honest and transparent in their interactions. This openness enhances teamwork and collaboration.

Enhanced Creativity

Freedom of Expression: When you feel free to be yourself, you are more likely to think creatively and innovate. Authenticity encourages individuals to explore new ideas and approaches without fear of judgment.

Diverse Perspectives: Authenticity brings diverse perspectives to the table, enriching discussions and leading to better decision-making. Being true to yourself allows you to contribute your unique insights and experiences.

Conclusion: Embrace Your Authentic Self

Building confidence in women within the aviation and aerospace industries is not just a moral imperative; it is a strategic advantage. Rediscovering and maintaining confidence and authenticity are ongoing processes that require self-reflection, support, and a commitment to personal values. As we move forward, let’s commit to creating workplaces where everyone, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute to the future of aviation and aerospace.

To all women in aviation and aerospace, leaders and organizations, I invite you to schedule a 20-minute conversation with me to discuss how you can support and promote authenticity and confidence in yourself and in your organization.

Schedule your conversation now:?Book a 20-minute session

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to advancing women in aviation and aerospace.

The Beyond the Flight Deck Team

Visit our website ?to learn more about the?Elevate Initiative?and how you can be a part of this transformative movement.

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