Never shy away from a challenge, shun “you can’t” and always remember, it is about the people

Thinking back through my 28 years working in the nuclear industry, I am fortunate to have worked with so many amazing leaders and nuclear professionals. They have inspired me to achieve more than I ever dreamed I could and humbled me when I got ahead of my skis. In a career of delivering clean nuclear power, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, there have been many challenges. I will highlight a few of the philosophies that helped me through those challenges and that I still follow today.

1. You can/t win if you don’t play

This is a philosophy I apply in all aspects of life. The phrase means that in order to achieve success, you must take action or participate in the opportunity presented to you. It emphasizes the importance of taking risks and engaging in activities, whether in games, competitions, or life in general, because without participation, you give up any chance of success. Inaction guarantees failure. I have mentored many young women, and they ask me for one key aspect that has led to my success. I tell them to volunteer for the jobs or projects that no one else wants or are hesitant to take, and then shine. Jump into the new challenge with both feet, learn fast and do your best. You will both get noticed for supporting the team, but also in turning a lemon into lemonade. If you don’t jump into the unknown, and play your heart out, you will never have the opportunity to win.

2. Never let someone tell you, “You can’t.”

I have often cited that I have made an entire career off of being the “squeaky wheel.” When I feel strongly about something that needs to be done, funded or fixed, I generally take the answer of “no” as “not yet.” Through that philosophy of persistence, I have been able to accomplish much in my spheres of influence and it has served me well. Particularly as a woman spending most of my life in male-dominated areas, “you can’t” was too often either outwardly stated or implied. My answer is always… yes, I can.

3. A leader is here for the team, not vice versa

In the current book I am reading, the former CEO of Best Buy Huber Joly talks about “unleashing the power of human magic.” It sounds hokey, but it is absolutely the key to success. A leader once told me more than 20 years ago that the folks at our sites were “people” not “employees” and we need to treat them like “people.” As leaders, our jobs are to support and develop our people into the best versions of themselves that they can be. Your success is a reflection of the success of your team and teammates.