Harmonizing Roles: Excelling in Leadership, Family, and Self-Discovery
Monique de Maio, MBA
Founder & CMO, ondemandCMO. Positioning, Messaging, Go to Market SME| Award-winning Author. Speaker. Podcaster. Coach. | Why Institute Certified Coach. WBENC-certified.
Hey there, incredible women leaders!
Today, I want to share an inspiring story that truly resonates with me. It’s about Megan Crokos, the Former Senior Vice President of Product and Fragrance Development at Bath and Body Works. Megan’s journey is a shining example of how you can reach the pinnacle of professional success without compromising on your personal life. Her story is a beautiful blend of leadership, career advancement, and family life, all fueled by a positive approach that we can all learn from.
Leadership and Career: A Journey of Growth
Megan’s rise from an entry-level position to the senior ranks is not just a story of career progression but also of personal growth and strategic vision. Her ascent is marked by hard work, smart decisions, and a never-ending quest for learning. What sets Megan apart is her unwavering commitment to her professional role while also being dedicated to her family. She proves that you don’t have to sacrifice one for the other.
MdM Insight: One of the secrets to creating a life you love is “Creating Circles of Support.” Surrounding yourself with supportive people who believe in your vision is crucial. Building these circles—whether they’re your team at work, family, or a network of like-minded professionals—provides the foundation for achieving your goals.
A Beacon of Positive Leadership
Megan’s leadership style is truly something to admire. She believes in kindness, empathy, and unwavering support for her team. Imagine starting every team meeting with genuine appreciation—how powerful is that? Megan sets the tone for a workplace where gratitude and collaboration thrive. She’s not just about being a leader; she’s redefining it by showing that strength can go hand in hand with kindness. Megan goes the extra mile, staying connected with her team on a personal level, making each member feel valued and understood. Her leadership is about achieving goals while fostering a supportive environment where everyone can flourish.
MdM Insight: Embracing “Authenticity” is another key to a fulfilling life. Being authentic and true to your values can create a positive and productive environment. Authentic leaders inspire trust and loyalty, driving their teams to greater heights.
Balancing Family and Work
Megan’s story is particularly inspiring in how she balances her high-powered career with a fulfilling family life. As a mother and a professional, she navigates her roles with grace and effectiveness. She involves her family in her journey and seamlessly integrates her work and home life. Her ability to prioritize, plan, and prepare has allowed her to manage the intricacies of both worlds successfully.
MdM Insight: “Time Management” is essential for balancing different aspects of life. Prioritizing what truly matters and planning your days around these priorities helps in creating a harmonious balance. Set clear boundaries to ensure you can integrate your family and career seamlessly.
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The Strategy of Hard Work and Openness
Hard work is central to Megan’s philosophy, coupled with an openness to new experiences and continuous learning. She emphasizes the importance of being curious and open-minded, urging the next generation to embrace opportunities, even if they deviate from the planned path. Her career shifts, sometimes involving steps into unfamiliar territory, highlight her adaptability and willingness to embrace change for growth.
MdM Insight: “Continuous Learning” is a secret to personal and professional growth. Staying curious and open to new experiences keeps you adaptable and ready for change. Embrace new opportunities and be willing to step into unfamiliar territory for growth.
Conclusion
Megan Crokos’s journey is a powerful illustration of how you can ascend to the top tiers of leadership without compromising on personal values or family responsibilities. Her positive methodology of leadership, characterized by empathy, support, and a culture of appreciation, offers a model for future leaders. Megan’s story encourages professionals everywhere to strive for excellence in their careers while fostering a fulfilling personal life and contributing positively to their teams’ growth and well-being.
Parting Advice: Remember, creating a life you love is about more than just professional success. It’s about finding balance, being true to yourself, continuously learning, and surrounding yourself with supportive people. You can embody these principles and achieve your goals.
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