For the Vice President and Treasurer at Recall, success means nothing without continual growth.
Familiarity can be limiting. For 14 years, I was part of one of the nation’s largest, fastest-growing retailers, eventually serving as vice president of finance and treasurer. During the company’s most rapid growth, there was never a dull moment. However, once the organization moved to maturity, the controlled chaos I thrived on evolved into the comfort of predictability. I found myself relying too heavily on my title, and not forcing myself to grow. In short, I was bored. After more than a decade of helping to build something special, it was time for me to start anew and broaden my horizons in a different industry.
I took on a new role performing similar tasks in a new industry, and found the difference quite stimulating. For years my work had been limited to US markets. Today, at Recall, I interact with partners from multiple countries, which requires understanding many culturally unique business and communication styles.
An added benefit of working in such a diverse business environment is that I’ve become a better listener and more attuned to the way things can be misinterpreted by those who come from different backgrounds. To fully understand the nuances of intercultural communication, you cannot simply be focused on what you want to say next.
So, when do you know it’s time to consider changing careers? When you come to a point where it feels there’s nothing left to master; when you’ve become too comfortable. Challenge yourself to learn new things, and never rely solely on what you knew when you woke up this morning. Growth begins at the end of your comfort zone.
