The Power of Believing in Yourself and Pursuing Your Dreams

Well, it's not exactly rocket science, but when you peek behind the corporate curtain, successful companies have dynamic, compassionate leaders at the helm.?

On the other hand, when you look at businesses that perpetually struggle, it's like gazing up and spotting a deficiency in the leadership constellation.

Leaders set the tone for an organization. They make or break a work culture, and they either engage employees or turn them off. However, many leaders often do not have the tools or necessary skills to successfully lead and manage in a new, complex era that demands talent diversity, inclusion, high engagement, collaboration, and faster, better solutions.

This observation may not be earth shattering, but it comes after decades of working in management positions. I left Prudential in 1997 to join Alliance Bernstein. I enjoyed working there, and during a Fourth of July barbecue, a friend who worked at Lord Abbett offered to share my resume with a colleague, one of the directors in the technology department.

I received a call from Rich, their hiring manager, and went in for an interview. He said they were looking for a java developer. I told him I wasn’t a developer; I was a project manager.?

Nevertheless, we had a great interview. He told me if they found a position suitable for me, he’d call me.?

He was a man of his word.

A few months later, he called and offered me a position in project management.??

That was March 2000.

I spent almost 17 years at Lord Abbett. I enjoyed my time there, rising to the position of Director of Technology Strategic Planning and Director, Technology Program Management Office, reporting to the Chief Information Officer.?

During my tenure in the corporate world, I sought out and nurtured collaborative relationships with mentors and sponsors, like the CIO, the managing partner, and other senior leaders who supported my growth and development within the organization. I am forever grateful for the friendships and experiences we created together over the years.

In late 2016 when unforeseeable circumstances led me to reconsider my career, and after over two decades working in the corporate world, I took a pause. It was time to re-evaluate what was most important in my life. I quickly realized the three things I valued most were my son’s well-being, peace of mind, and my health.

At the time my commute to the metro NYC job market required over three hours a day from Sussex County, NJ. The combination of a long commute and a desire for flexibility to meet the needs of my growing son pushed me to get creative.

And get creative I did. I reflected on all that I had experienced and learned in my own leadership roles and realized I wanted to help other leaders and talented women navigate the leadership world as an executive coach and mentor.

A big believer in coaches, mentors, and the power of networking, I sought out those very people in my own life to help and support me in this transition.

With a team of coaches supporting me, I embarked on a mission close to my heart, one that would allow me to make a real difference — coaching leaders and women on their journey to becoming exceptional, inclusive leaders. It began as a small endeavor, guiding individuals (for free) with the tools they needed to thrive and build remarkable careers.

I became a certified coach and embraced the challenges of running my own business. This transformation was not just about work; it was about creating a space where those who were ready could develop their leadership potential and flourish.

In 2017, I took a leap of faith, stepping out of my familiar existence into the world of entrepreneurship.?

My passion had become my profession. My free sessions turned into paying sessions. And my calendar filled with new clients.?

Today, as I have the privilege to speak and impact global audiences, coach, write, and mentor, I find immense fulfillment in helping talented leaders become the best versions of themselves. My journey is a testament to the power of believing in yourself and pursuing your dreams with consistent actions and a humble heart. It's a reminder that even the most significant changes often start as small steps, driven by the desire to live in your truth and make a positive impact on the world during the blip of our existence on the planet.

At ExecutiveBound, we believe in your ability to learn, grow, and fulfill your leadership potential. Thanks for being a valuable member of our community.

The Highest Good Includes Yourself and the Good of Others

After 25 years working in very competitive corporate environments, Dr. Ginny Baro founded ExecutiveBound, an innovative leadership development and career advancement company dedicated to transforming the lives of over 1 million women and leaders who have felt underestimated, like they've clawed their way to the top, and who want to claim their seats at the table without burning out. The company's record of success encompasses impactful keynotes, immersive coaching and leadership programs, rejuvenating retreats, #1 best-selling books, and results-focused consulting services. As a trusted partner, ExecutiveBound proudly collaborates with visionary organizations, business groups, and Fortune 500 companies across diverse industries.

In January 2020, she launched the Women's Fearless Leadership Mastermind, a solution for organizations seeking to develop female leaders to gain critical leadership skills that deliver business growth, high-performing teams, and personal well-being.

To connect with Dr. Ginny Baro, email [email protected] or access her online calendar here.