If the door of opportunity opens before you are ready, go through it anyway.

Everyone has challenges and stress. And new opportunities rarely come at some mythical “perfect time.” In 2017, I was at a crossroads. I’d had the same position for years and was comfortable in my role. So, when I was approached with an opportunity to work for a different organization, I hesitated. I had to decide—quick. Did I want to jump into the unknown and take a risk on something new? The timing wasn’t great. I was still adapting to my life as a new mother and all the changes that brought.

But when that door opened, I walked through—and it was one of the best decisions of my life. In the new role I found more than a mentor—I found an advocate. My manager advocated to get me enrolled in several leadership training programs—because even if it’s not in our job title—we’re all leaders. She taught me the importance of advocating for yourself and telling others what you want. I learned that you drive your own career.

You can’t be what you can’t see

My advocate saw the importance of proactively facilitating exposure to senior leaders. When she set up meetings with key leaders, she literally made sure I had a seat at the table. Being in the room, watching successful leaders was a game-changer.

I continue to advocate for myself, but now I can also advocate for others—because good leaders know how to make room for future leaders.

Accepting help, paying it forward

No one achieves success without help. Earlier this year, I had a family emergency and instead of working an event with colleagues, I found myself riding in an ambulance with my husband on a stretcher. People often say, “Let me know what I can do to help.” My colleagues said that and meant it. They covered meetings, finished up projects and allowed me to focus on my family. They stepped up when I really needed them. And those are the types of co-workers I’ve come to know over and over again during my career at INL.

I also have a wonderful husband and family network that steps up to help shuttle kids to activities and are always there in a pinch. The world today is busier than ever, and figuring out how to manage through it with a great support system was key to finding a fulfilling career and personal life. I’ve been helped so much along the way and my lifelong goal is to do my best with the opportunities I have and pay it forward. And when a door opens, walk through it!