Lanes are for the road, not the office.

How often have we heard “stay in your lane”, “do what you’re told”, and “mind your own business” throughout our lives? Professionally, we are often taught to not push boundaries, to be a “yes person” to everything our boss says, to not question authority or decision-making, and to succumb to the hierarchy.

But what I’m here to tell you today is…

Don’t stay in your lane!

Easier said than done, right? Even though it can feel impossible to step outside the “comfortable” bounds of your role, trust me, you’ll feel a whole lot better when you’re speaking up for what you need and deserve, innovating and contributing in the way that you want, and bringing to light any workplace challenges that you’re witnessing or experiencing.

Getting out of your lane = Vulnerability

Vulnerability = Bravery

Let’s be brave!

Now, I’m not saying to get out of your lane or be a disruptor just for kicks. There is definitely some risk in speaking out, depending on the issue at hand. However, it can be vital to push boundaries and not stay in your lane when things absolutely need to change. When your work culture is toxic and it’s no longer values-aligned. When your company is not acting with integrity. Or, when you or a colleague is being treated inappropriately.

There are also smaller ways to get out of your lane. Never be afraid to ask questions, talk to your manager about how you’re hoping to grow and contribute in greater ways, make your workplace the type of place where you want to work (e.g. get involved in ERGs, giving back opportunities, and share ideas with those leading the charge), don’t push away your desire to innovate—share your ideas with your team and don’t hold back, and ask to join meetings you’re not usually involved in—the worst your manager can say is no. ?

You’ll feel a weight lifted when you are staying true to yourself and your goals, not settling for anything less than what you deserve, and finding allies who can support you in your bravery. It’s so empowering to speak up and step out of our oftentimes predetermined lane. We accept a role, not a lane, and no matter where you are in the hierarchy, know that you have the capacity to be more than your job description.

*A few friendly reminders*

• Never settle
• Always advocate for yourself
• Seek opportunities to make a greater impact
• Be a constant learner
• Ask questions—there is strength and power in knowledge
• See yourself as an equal—even if you’re lowest in the hierarchy, know that you are just as valuable as the CEO
• Your voice, perspective, and ideas are needed
• You are always worth it
• View barriers and boundaries as opportunities

Lanes are for the road, not the office!