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The Second-Best Mistake I Ever Made
…and the Importance of Embracing a Growth Mindset
Have you ever made a mistake that, at the time, felt like the wrong turn on your life’s journey, but in hindsight, turned out to be a pivotal moment leading you to unexpected success? I’ve certainly had my share of such experiences, and today, I want to share with you the story of the second-best mistake I ever made (perhaps we’ll save the best mistake for another day).
As many of you know, I began my career as a high school math teacher. It seemed like a noble path, but it quickly became apparent that it wasn’t the right fit for me. The stress and demands took a toll on my physical and mental well-being. It was tough, and I immediately questioned my life choices.
But here’s the twist — without that huge mistake, I would never have made the career pivot that led me to where I am today. I transitioned into the tech industry by becoming a software engineer. Through a series of strategic job moves and salary negotiations, I doubled my teacher’s salary in just two years, and in less than five years, I tripled it.
My journey didn’t stop there. I discovered my passion in helping other Black women navigate career transformations, negotiate higher salaries, and embrace their own potential. This experience embodies the essence of a growth mindset — a belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. It’s a reminder that even when things seem bleak, there’s potential for growth and transformation just around the corner.
This path eventually led me to found Getting Black Women Paid, a platform dedicated to empowering Black women to change the trajectory of their careers, dramatically increase their lifetime earning potential, and achieve financial freedom.
And speaking of embracing growth, I’m excited to share that this week’s Wealthy Wednesdays Live session, happening January 31st at 12:30 PM CST, will delve into the topic of cultivating a growth mindset. During the live session, I’ll be sharing valuable insights and strategies for nurturing this mindset and…
