A Lesson in Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone
July 13, 2021
Hello everyone and congratulations to my fellow cohort members and cohort B for successfully completing the 2020-2021 Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Simmons University Women’s Leadership Program which we call WLP. A few weeks ago, I learned that I was selected by my cohort members to speak at our graduation. This is truly an honor and I greatly appreciate it.
When I think back on my WLP experience it starts with my EVP, Deirdre Evens presenting the opportunity to me. I felt honored and overwhelmed at the same time. All of the But’s came to mind. But we’re in a pandemic! But what about my day job? But what about me swearing off never going back to school? My thoughts quickly shifted to yes, I’m applying for this program. I have a great team, and this is the perfect way for me to get out of my comfort zone. I was so happy when a couple of months later, I received the acceptance email. I was instantly hooked after session one, Your Leadership Identity. This continued throughout the eight-month program.
This has been an invaluable experience. I will continue to apply the lessons learned throughout the remainder of my career. I hope to continue the relationships I’ve built with my cohort members and peer mentor group members Kaitlyn, Melanie, Heather, Nicole and Erica.
A big thank you goes to Rachel Benjamin and Alyson Weiss of the Chamber’s leadership and talent development team for leading us on this journey.
And in conclusion, I challenge all of the graduates to expand yourselves and grow so much that you can’t find your way back to your comfort zone.
Let’s all go out and put what we learned in WLP into action to make an impact on our companies, communities and all those we come in contact with.
Women’s Leadership Program empowers women leaders with the skills and network they need to excel in their careers and to create the conditions for other women to thrive. In partnership with Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership, participants learn to identify and maximize their leadership style, build a strategic network, manage teams and perceptions, and negotiate. Nominations for the Class of 2022 are now open! You may submit a nomination here.