I recently had the honor of sharing my journey at the Invest in Women Forum, an inspiring event celebrating personal growth, professional excellence, and organizational progress. As I reflected on my experiences, I recognized how resilience, family support, mentorship, and the transformative power of education have been instrumental in shaping my career and personal brand.

Crafting Your Unique Personal Brand

Personal branding is more than just a trendy buzzword; it’s a powerful tool for achieving career success. The Harvard Business Review defines personal branding as the intentional and strategic expression of your value—how others perceive and remember you. For me, my brand is based on a passionate commitment to expanding access and success in higher education, especially for underserved and underrepresented populations. This mission is deeply influenced by my identity as a Hispanic woman and the invaluable guidance from mentors who have shaped my values, reinforcing my commitment to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for others.

In today's fast-paced professional landscape, taking ownership of your career is more crucial than ever. No longer can we sit back and wait for opportunities to knock; true success demands intentionality, proactive effort, and a commitment to lifelong learning. To navigate this journey of career ownership and leadership development, we must embrace two essential mindsets: a growth mindset and an active engagement with our personal and professional goals. Whether you're just starting out, contemplating a lateral move, or gearing up for a leadership role, remember: the power to shape your future is firmly in your hands. 

What Does Career Ownership Look Like?

Career ownership means taking control of your professional journey. It’s about clearly defining your goals, creating a plan to reach them, and being deliberate in the steps you take. This proactive mindset empowers you to seek opportunities, build meaningful relationships, and address challenges head-on. At Western Governors University (WGU), I’ve witnessed how innovation and technology can truly change lives for the better. With 72% of our students coming from underserved or underrepresented populations, our competency-based education model supports working learners in balancing education with life.

In 2023, I participated in WGU's “Leaders Developing Leaders” program, which enhanced my understanding of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the significance of peer and team feedback. This experience reinforced my belief that career ownership is not merely about climbing the professional ladder; it’s about fostering a growth mindset and continually evolving.

Here are some thought-provoking questions from WGU’s professional development resources to help you assess your career trajectory: 

1. Where are you in your journey? Are you new to your role, exploring a lateral move, or preparing for leadership? Understanding your current standing is the first step toward identifying your desired destination.
2. Are you cultivating a growth mindset? Do you view challenges as opportunities for growth? This requires self-awareness, adaptability, and the ability to shift perspectives.
3. What skills do you need to develop? Every career path demands a blend of technical, interpersonal, and leadership skills. Identify areas for growth and actively pursue learning opportunities.

The Interplay Between Career Ownership and Leadership 

Leadership isn’t a title; it’s a mindset. Regardless of your current role, you can cultivate leadership skills that distinguish you from others. Authentic leadership is about inspiring others, driving change, and creating value for your organization and team. Here are a few strategies to enhance your leadership skills:

1. Embrace Your Organization’s Culture: As Peter Drucker famously said, “Culture eats strategy for breakfast.” Understanding and aligning with your organization’s culture is vital for impactful leadership. Great leaders build trust and engagement by embodying the values and beliefs of their organization. At WGU, our cultural beliefs encourage individual contributions to a collaborative community, focusing on student success, accountability, and respect.
2. Seek Mentorship and Build Networks: Mentorship is one of the most invaluable resources for career and leadership development. Seek out mentors and sponsors who can offer guidance and support. Expand your network to include colleagues from various departments or fields. Ask yourself: Who do I admire as a leader, and how can I build relationships with those who can help me reach my goals?
3. Develop Emotional Intelligence: Effective leaders understand the significance of emotional intelligence (EQ). It enables you to navigate interpersonal dynamics and inspire others. To boost your EQ, practice active listening, seek feedback, and reflect on how your actions impact those around you. 
4. Commit to Lifelong Learning: Leadership is a continuous journey of growth and development. Take advantage of professional development programs, attend workshops, and engage in thought leadership opportunities. The more you learn, the better equipped you'll be to tackle new challenges and inspire innovation.

Are You Ready to Take the Leap into Leadership?

Leadership is a journey, not a destination. To assess your readiness for leadership responsibilities, consider the following questions:

• Do you have a passion for helping others succeed? True leadership is about empowering those around you. 
• Are you willing to embrace challenges? Leading requires resilience and adaptability in the face of uncertainty.
• Are you committed to personal growth? Great leaders are perpetual learners—about their field, their team, and themselves.

If you're ready to take that leap, start small. Volunteer for projects that require leadership skills, seek constructive feedback, and continuously evaluate how you can contribute to your team’s success.

Final Thoughts 

Taking ownership of your career and developing leadership skills is a lifelong journey that demands intention, effort, and a belief in your ability to create positive change. Whether you’re at the beginning of your path or preparing for a leadership role, remember that you hold the power to shape your future. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about being curious, empathetic, and open to growth. 

So, take that first step today. Define your goals, seek mentorship, and embrace the opportunities that come your way. Your career is yours to own, and your leadership potential is limitless!