New Career Path. Same Me.

Purpose. Continued.

As I dive into the next phase of my professional journey, I’ve come to realize that while my career is taking a new direction, the essence of who I am and what I believe in remains the same. This shift isn’t about changing my values or abandoning the foundation that has driven me to date; rather, it’s about channeling those core beliefs into new opportunities and challenges, allowing me to continue showing up as the short, mouthy, (now) brunette that I am.

Activation

At the heart of my identity is action. As someone whose Gallup StrengthsFinder #1 trait is “activator,” I’ve always been driven by the need to get things done. My love for problem solving, tackling tasks, and making swift decisions has not only shaped my past career but is now guiding this new chapter. I am proud to be a doer, and that will never change. The world needs doers to get “it” done. Moving forward, I’m embracing that same energy to propel me forward - leading with activation, getting things done rapidly, and not being afraid to move forward even if I only have 60% of the information.

60%? What’s that all about? Years ago, I learned that waiting for 100% certainty isn’t just impractical - it’s a hindrance. Success comes from trusting your gut, relying on experience, and knowing that a strong, supportive team will help fill in the gaps as we move forward. As a recovering perfectionist, I carry with me the philosophy that you don’t have to be perfect to make progress. This fuels my desire to keep taking action.

Staying True to My Words

While my professional title and industry are changing, my core values remain consistent. I still believe deeply in leading with a positive mindset, where I “get to” do what I love rather than feeling like I “have to.” This sense of gratitude for the work I do and the people I serve continues to be a powerful motivator. I approach this new career with the same enthusiasm and belief in the importance of attitude and effort.

I also hold onto the idea that personal brand is critical - it’s the essence of how we choose to show up every day. In this next phase, I’m more conscious than ever about how I present myself and how I want to be remembered. I’m all about showing up with open, honest, and timely communication. My brand has always been about creating an environment where my team is heard and my clients are supported.

What lies ahead isn’t a hard reset; it’s about taking lessons I’ve learned from years of experience and applying them in new ways. I still believe that every person on my team is a leader in their own right. Management isn’t about bossing people around; it’s about being a resource for growth. I thrive on seeing others take initiative, and I’m committed to continue to foster a workplace where everyone is empowered to grow and contribute.

Vulnerability and Standards

As I lean into this next chapter, I will continue to embrace vulnerability as a leader. No one has all the answers, and that’s okay. I’m not afraid to admit what I don’t know, and I believe in being transparent with those around me. Vulnerability is a two-way street, and in this new phase of my career, I’m focused on creating an environment where both my team and I can be open about our challenges and growth opportunities.

That being said, I also know that clients don’t deserve mediocrity. While I value vulnerability, I won’t celebrate the bare minimum. I don’t expect perfection, however, I still appreciate a genuine effort to grow and improve. My career will continue to be guided by the same high standards that have always driven me, and I will continue to push myself and those around me to rise to the occasion.

A Continuation

Ultimately, my career change is not a departure from who I am; it’s an extension of everything I’ve always believed in. My career may be taking a turn; however, my values of action, positivity, growth, and high standards remain. This is the continuation of a journey I’ve been on my entire life, one that embraces both the lessons of the past and the opportunities of the future.

This new career is the latest chapter in my book that’s far from finished. As I turn the page, I do so with excitement, energy, and the confidence that who I am will continue to lead the way. I also move forward knowing I have the support of many. Thank you for cheering me on.

The Eve of The Next Chapter

Recently, my texts, phone, LI messaging and every other means of reaching me have been blowing up all asking the same question – what’s next? Patience, my friends. It’ll launch soon. Give me until next Tuesday.

Lesley Brandt. Act 02. Take 01. And action……