This article is part of our #40over40 series.
This is our time! We’re stronger when we work together to lift other women up. Evolve is creating the list we've been waiting for -- the first-ever 40 Over 40 list! We're curating profiles of women who have or are in the process of reinventing their careers in their 40s, 50, 60s and beyond. We're thrilled to share these stories of reinvention - women returning to work, pivoting careers or launching new ventures!
What prompted your career reinvention?
I was in a job that I knew wasn't right for me. I was willing to make it work but I was fortunate to get laid off. I spent about 2 years doing amazing consulting work. I worked on projects developing pre-school educational content, project managing digital learning platforms, creating social emotional materials for care givers and financial literacy materials for new communities. I primarily worked from my couch and had time to cook, read, and spend time with family and friends. Then I had the opportunity for a career shift. I was hesitant to make it but through the process I fell in love with the opportunity. My new job as CEO of Girl Scouts of Nassau County, allows me to cull all my experiences, be back in my home community and really make a difference in the lives of girls.
What's the best thing about midlife career change?
The best thing about this midlife career shift has been the opportunity for me to be my authentic self. This is the first job I have had where I can be 100% me. I truly enjoy leading an organization, designing my dream work culture and building our community relationships. I also enjoy that every day is different then the day before. I am never bored.
What's the biggest challenge? The biggest challenge is pacing myself. I have only been in this position for 2 years and it feels like 10. I need to do better in setting a more balanced pace and shifting my work life balance. I plan on doing this job for the next 10 years and don't want to burn out.
What's your personal mantra or mission? Why?
Be kind. My mother stressed kindness in my upbringing. I have worked in some toxic work environment and as a leader I stress the importance of being kind and showing empathy. It is important to me that my staff and membership know I care about them and am engaged.
Your best career advice for other women at midlife is...
My best advice is to network, network, network. My connection to others is key to my success. I enjoy connecting others and appreciate when people reach out to me for support or opportunities.
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