Significant Career Lesson from a Director of Programs at Minds Matter Southern California
Shalin, Director of Programs at Minds Matter Southern California, learned that advocating for oneself, even if uncomfortable, is crucial for career success; the act of self-advocacy, when approached with positive intentions and preparation, ultimately benefits everyone involved and shouldn't be viewed as "selfish."
Advocacy, Self-Confidence, Communication, Leadership, Resilience
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Shalin Craig
Director of Programs
Minds Matter Southern California
University of California, Berkeley, 2015
N/A
Ethnic & Related Studies
Nonprofit, Foundations & Grantmaking
Education
Scholarship Recipient, Worked 20+ Hours in School, LGBTQ, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Advocating for oneself is not selfish but often improves situations for everyone.
2. It's important to remember that advocating for yourself can lead to positive change and impact.
3. Seeking support and advice from others can make advocating for yourself easier.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
I love this question. Throughout my career, whenever I've faced a challenge or something was really stressing me out, it often had to do with a situation where I had to advocate for myself.
This was, and sometimes still is, uncomfortable for me. I place a high value on relationships, and I sometimes worry about what others will think if I speak up for myself, or how it might affect my relationships.
I've learned to reframe advocating for myself not as something selfish. It often comes from a place of wanting to improve or change something that will actually make things better for everyone.
So, I remind myself that if I'm advocating for myself and it's truly coming from a good place with positive intentions, and I'm trying to make an impact, it's bigger than me and any temporary discomfort I might feel.
It's also important to seek out support and advice in those situations. Having the support of others makes those situations a lot easier.
So, I would just say, don't be scared to advocate for yourself. Just make sure you do the preparation you need, whether that's seeking out opinions from others or doing some self-reflection.