How to Embrace the Now & Prepare for What’s Next

The UnapologeTECH Cup Of Tea - Friday, Feb 21

"Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it." – Maya Angelou

Feeling stuck? Seeking validation? Wanting more?

What is success for women, especially women of color? The saying "You can have it all" is true—but women often have it all at different times and in different ways. The key is defining what having it all means to you and making peace with your journey.

The Ambitious Woman – This One Is for You

One of the most powerful decisions you can make is choosing the lane you want to thrive in and being okay with that. Your version of success is yours to define, and no one else can dictate what that looks like.

Personal confession:?I am a fantastic mom and an empathetic leader, but my time has shifted. The late nights building community platforms and curriculums and attending every networking happy hour and leadership dinner have slowed down. Why? I prefer to cook my son dinner every night, giggle with him, take bath time, read interesting books, and give him love.

Is this a personal choice? Absolutely. And I wouldn’t change it for the world. It’s the best gift and assignment I’ve ever received—being someone’s mother. But with every new title, promotion, and chapter comes changes, trade-offs, and mourning the old version of yourself.

Why Women Leaders Matter More Than Ever

Psychological research confirms what we already know: when women lead, everyone benefits. Studies show that increasing the number of women in leadership improves productivity, collaboration, and fairness in the workplace. Yet, only 10% of Fortune 500 companies are led by women—and women of color face even greater barriers.

According to McKinsey & Company, Black and Latina women are significantly less likely than their peers to have career support from managers or allies in leadership. They also experience fewer sponsorship opportunities and more workplace microaggressions.

But here’s the power in visibility: When women rise, they change the narrative. A study analyzing thousands of investor reports found that appointing women to executive positions literally shifts the language used in business discussions—associating women with key leadership traits and dismantling outdated stereotypes.

Your ambition isn’t just about you—it’s about reshaping the future.

Appreciating the Present

Today’s newsletter is about letting go of what was and appreciating what is. There is a time and place for everything. If you want to be the executive—be that. If you want to be an amazing, present mother—be that. If you want to be a creator—be that. But live up to it, own it, and experience each stage fully.

Learn to find the beauty in the present. If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the past year and a half, it’s that every day brings new obstacles but also rewards—if you pay attention. Defining what “good” looks like for you is one of the most important tasks a woman can do for herself. No one can define this for you. It must align with your mind, body, and spirit.

Five Best Practices for Thriving on Your Own Terms

1. Define Your Success – Success looks different for everyone. Be clear on what it means for you and block out the noise.
2. Set Boundaries Without Guilt – You don’t have to be everywhere all the time. Protect your energy and time.
3. Embrace Change and Trade-offs – Growth often requires shifts in priorities. Honor your choices without regret.
4. Be Present in Your Season – Whether it’s career growth, motherhood, or creativity, give yourself permission to be fully present and engaged.
5. Advocate for Yourself & Others – Representation matters. Support other women, mentor, and create spaces for others to thrive.

Reflections & Actions

• What does success look like for you in this season of your life?
• What trade-offs are you making, and are they in alignment with your goals?
• How can you support another woman’s journey today?

Take a moment to journal your thoughts, and remember—your journey is uniquely yours. Honor it. Own it. Thrive in it.

UnapologeTECH Podcast – Season 5 Drops This Spring!

Exciting news! Season 5 of the UnapologeTECH Podcast launches this spring, and it's all about how to find success on your terms. We’re bringing you candid conversations, expert advice, and real-life stories to help you navigate your career, business, and personal growth. Expect insights on balancing ambition with self-care, breaking barriers, and creating impact in your field.

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Remember: You are exactly where you need to be. Own your path, embrace your growth, and keep moving forward.

— Kalina Bryant, Tech Trailblazer| Forbes Under 30 Honoree, North America

Thank you for reading!

Unapologetech By Kalina bryant

www.unapologetech.com

Oakland | NYC