A Lesson From My First Car

I remember the day like it was yesterday, even though it has been 6+ years.

I found myself on a quest for a solution to a daily predicament.

The problem was simple yet significant—waiting for public transportation, particularly during inclement weather.

The solution? Acquiring my first car.

By no means was it a drawn-out search; necessity guided my decision

What lead to me buying that car that was not the one I initially wanted?

The fear of unpredictable restocking led me to settle for a car that, while not vehicle I truly wanted, served its purpose. Today, that same car is still with me. Not because it's the perfect fit, but because I've grown comfortable with it, despite outgrowing its limitations.

Do you remember your first car? - That gave you freedom and independence.?

Though far from perfect, it got us from point A to B reliably. But what happens years later when that car no longer aligns with our needs, and dreams years later?

In this week's newsletter I want to explore how we often approach our careers the same way.

Convenience, availability, and the pressure to make quick decisions out of college leads us to settle into jobs that once served us, even after we've outgrown them.

There are powerful lessons here about resisting complacency and pursuing your boldest professional aspirations.

??Don't Settle Just Because It's Available

When I went shopping for my first car, I didn't take along with me a trusted source, and seeing that it was my first car, factors like availability and affordability overrode my wish list. What also set in was the need to make a quick decision based on the fear of uncertainty. This often leads us to compromise.

Similarly, many fall into careers that are readily available or easiest to obtain, rather than holding out for our true passions. The temptation to settle is strong when starting salaries or job security are at stake.

But while practicality has its place, don't let it hijack your dreams entirely. Stay aligned with your interests and forge your own path. Easy and obvious aren't always best long-term.

??Comfort Shouldn't Stifle Your Growth

Sticking with our first car long after its useful years teaches another lesson - comfort can hinder growth. Clinging to the familiar, even after our skills and needs evolve, keeps us stuck.

The same applies in careers. Comfort provides a sense of security. But holding onto a job you've outgrown - one that fails to challenge and excite you - severely limits your potential.

As Apple's founder Steve Jobs said: “Stay hungry, stay foolish.” Get comfortable with discomfort. Continually push yourself to grow beyond what feels easy and safe.

??Honestly Assess Whether You've Outgrown Your Role

Periodically take stock of whether your current job still aligns with your interests, skills, values, and aspirations. Be honest about when you've outgrown a role.

• Has your work become too routine??
• Do you need more creative challenges?
• Are you craving different social connections?

While a steady paycheck is nice, money shouldn't be the primary driver. Take time to reflect on how well your career truly fits at this stage of your life.

??Take Strategic Risks to Break Free from Complacency

Stepping outside your comfort zone inevitably involves some risk - but it's often necessary for growth. Leaving a stable job to start a business, embark on a passion project, or pivot to a totally different field can reap major rewards with the right planning.

Rather than rash decisions, take strategic risks. Do your homework, create a plan B, start with small steps. By minimizing unnecessary risk, you can test the waters of a new endeavor you're drawn to.

??It's Never Too Late to Shift Gears

You may feel stuck on the typical career trajectory - school, entry-level job, eventual promotion to middle management. But it's never too late to shake things up.

Whether you're fresh out of college or a seasoned expert in your field, there are always new career possibilities waiting to be explored. Let your evolving interests and insatiable curiosity guide you.

Remember life is a journey of constant evolution. What fulfilled us at one stage may no longer fit years later.?

Ask yourself: Have I outgrown my current career? Could it be time to finally pursue my dream job??

Don't let complacency with the familiar hold you back from pursuing the career (and life) you truly want.

“Courage is not the absence of fear, courage is acting in spite of fear.”

Today I invite you to take the first step on your courageous path by signing up for the upcoming “Courageous Woman Toolkit Challenge,” and let’s explore how you can utilize your creativity, and invest your time and energy to confidently pursuing the career and life you truly want.