Leading Through Change: Empowering Women to Lead with Strength and Resilience
"Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything." – George Bernard Shaw
Women navigating organizational and political systems often face unique challenges. While these systems can feel restrictive, they offer opportunities for those willing to embrace resilience and adapt. This article explores strategies for women to lead through change with courage, adaptability, and strength.
Navigating the Winds of Change
Adapting to change is never easy, particularly in environments where progress feels slow or controlled by unwritten rules. Bureaucracies often reward patience and conformity. However, breaking through requires a blend of strategic thinking and agility.
I've learned to stay one step ahead throughout my career—strategically navigating challenges and opportunities. Refusing to settle, I've embraced change, understanding that growth often lies beyond our comfort zones.
Tip: To thrive, build strong networks while maintaining authenticity. Success often depends on balancing diplomacy with determination.
Opportunities and Challenges in Federal Employment
What made working for the federal government so attractive is that it's one of the largest employers in the world, with endless opportunities stateside and overseas.
In fact, the federal government employs over 2.1 million civilians, providing job opportunities across various fields and locations (U.S. Office of Personnel Management [OPM], 2023).
For example, overseas assignments, which comprise about 10% of federal employment, offer unparalleled opportunities for travel, career growth, and cultural immersion (OPM, 2023).
These experiences not only build professional expertise but also foster personal resilience. Typical overseas tours can span 2 to 3 years with possible extensions.
I began my Army civilian career in Detroit, Michigan, in 1986 and left for Iraq in 2005. I completed two tours in Iraq and two tours in Israel. I have also worked in Wiesbaden and Wuerzburg, Germany, and participated in disaster duty in West Virginia. I have also worked on numerous projects on several military bases in Texas. Now, I am residing in Anchorage, Alaska, working on a super project.
I have had such a fantastic career filled with adventure and intrigue. I gained invaluable knowledge and experience due to my willingness to step outside my comfort zone to the unknown. The only people who limit us are ourselves. What are you willing to sacrifice to have the life you want?
A Journey of Courage and Adaptability
My answer was always yes when asked to step into unfamiliar roles or challenging environments. From braving freezing Michigan winters on survey crews to navigating complex construction projects in Iraq and Israel, each experience taught me invaluable lessons in leadership and effective communication.
My sacrifice for a life of service and commitment to the Army allowed me to make a difference in the world, a feeling like no other.
Professionals who embrace challenges and take ownership of their career paths are 70% more likely to report higher job satisfaction (Harvard Business Review, 2023).
By embracing uncertainty, I've grown in ways I never imagined. This adaptability has been the cornerstone of my career success.
Call to Action
Empower your journey by embracing opportunities that inspire and challenge you:
• Reflect on areas where you can step outside your comfort zone.
• Seek mentorship or guidance to navigate bureaucratic systems.
• Explore unconventional roles that align with your long-term goals.
Start today: Take one bold step toward embracing change. Commit to leading through change with strength and resilience, whether it's a new role, skill, or decision.
References
Harvard Business Review. (2023). Proactive career management: The key to success. Retrieved from https://hbr.org
LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report. (2022). Career advancement and adaptability in the modern workplace. Retrieved from https://learning.linkedin.com
U.S. Office of Personnel Management. (2023). Federal employment statistics and opportunities. Retrieved from https://www.opm.gov
