Obstacles as Opportunities: Why Adversity Can Be the Catalyst for a Successful Career

One thing I've learned throughout my career is that adversity doesn't discriminate.

While I can't say with certainty that every single person has had to overcome an obstacle at some point during their professional journey, I can assume that it's highly probable. And, oftentimes, it's the individuals we least expect – often the most successful – who in fact have.

Case in point: When I was growing up, I always assumed that individuals in high-ranking positions got to where they did because of their background, connections and maybe in part, luck. This assumption served as a deterrent for me because, in comparison, my background and connections didn't add up.

While not always openly discussed, this feeling of inadequacy is more common than you might think. But instead of being an impediment, some individuals, like Sandra Woo, Account Manager, TD Commercial Banking, use it as motivation to forge ahead and redefine their future.

Here's Sandra's journey:

As the daughter of hardworking, first-generation immigrants who didn't have the opportunity to pursue formal education, Sandra didn't have the guidance she needed to help her succeed when beginning her studies at the University of British Columbia (UBC), or when looking to begin her career after graduation.

"Not having someone who understood what it takes to be a top student or find a job in the corporate workforce was challenging," Sandra explained. "So, I was determined to acquire guidance by reaching out, forming relationships and trusting that the people I connected with would see my potential."

Actively seek support

Reaching out for support is a great way to gain the insight you're lacking – whether you're starting your career or considering a change.

"I had the opportunity to work in Toronto for an internship and decided to reach out to Kelvin, having known of him from launching Ascend's first university chapter at UBC," explained Sandra. "There was no guarantee he would respond, but I felt it was worth a try and it was – we connected, and he offered advice which led me to my current role."

Reaching out was Sandra's first step in building a strong relationship with myself and the other mentors she connected with at TD, all of whom are committed to helping her grow, develop and achieve her career goals. Not only that, Sandra proactively offers support in return – an essential but not always recognized part of maintaining lasting mentorship relationships.

Be your own advocate

You can have the courage to seek support, but if you don't believe in your value, you'll only get so far.

"Believing in myself was key," said Sandra. "I believed that I was able to do what I wanted regardless of my circumstances. By having confidence in my capabilities, I could demonstrate my value, which I feel opened the door to opportunities."

And self-advocating isn't reserved for one-on-one mentoring; it's something you can – and should – practice elsewhere, perhaps as part of a panel, which Sandra plans to do as part of her ongoing involvement with Ascend.

Pay it forward

Guest speaking is also an excellent way to give back to individuals who might be looking for a new opportunity but are facing some challenges.

"I feel like because I'm still in the early stages of my career, I'm in a good position to offer advice on making a new transition," explained Sandra. "I'm always trying to find ways to identify the potential in others and offer the support that I've been fortunate enough to receive."

And just like Sandra continues to give back, she also continues to advocate her abilities and seek support when needed, because overcoming past challenges doesn't guarantee a future free from obstacles. But, by recognizing and believing in your capacity to overcome any challenge, you'll soon find yourself leaping over whatever hurdle is placed in your way.

Have you encountered any obstacles during your career that you successfully overcame? Share your experience and tips in the comments below!