She Strengthens

Embracing Imperfection: Lessons Learned on My Journey to Success

As I reflect on my path to success in the tech industry, I’m reminded that it’s not just about celebrating the victories, but also about acknowledging the mistakes that helped shape me into the person I am today.

The Blind Spots We Don’t Know We Have

I used to think I had a solid understanding of my industry, but I soon realized that there was so much more to learn. My experience in gaming competitions and events, combined with my technical degree, made me overconfident. I didn’t recognize the complexity and effort that goes into creating a video game. It wasn’t until I started working in the industry that I understood the intricacies involved. My advice? Be humble and acknowledge what you don’t know. Recognize that there’s always room to learn and grow.

Interviewing 101: Avoiding Common Mistakes

Looking back, I cringe at some of my early interview experiences. I didn’t know what I wanted, and my lack of preparation showed. I was going for the “big, sexy jobs” without considering whether they were a good fit for my skills and experience. To improve, I started role-playing interviews, researching the roles, and practicing my answers. My advice? Be intentional when applying for positions, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Shedding the Chip on Your Shoulder

I’ve met many women in tech who struggle with either being too quiet or carrying a chip on their shoulder. I’ve been guilty of both. It’s essential to address biases and frustrations, but holding onto them can hinder your progress. Instead, focus on moving forward and improving yourself. My advice? Let go of grudges and work towards positivity.

Finding Your Voice in a Crowded Room

As an introvert, I struggled to speak up and participate in discussions. I read Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg, but I didn’t always apply its principles. The more I stayed silent, the less confident I became. To overcome this, I started small, speaking up in low-stakes situations and seeking feedback from colleagues. My advice? Get out of your head and share your thoughts. Find someone with great communication skills and learn from them.

Conquering Impostor Syndrome

Impostor syndrome was a constant companion on my journey. I doubted my abilities and felt like a fraud. To overcome this, I recognized negative self-talk for what it was – unrealistic fears. I reminded myself of my accomplishments and qualities that led me to where I am. And most importantly, I started taking action, achieving small wins, and proving that little gremlin wrong. My advice? Focus on your strengths, achievements, and the positive feedback from others.

Embracing Imperfection and Moving Forward

These five mistakes were just a few of the many lessons I’ve learned on my journey. I’m still learning, and I’m far from perfect. But I’m pressing forward, and I hope you will too. Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes – it’s how we grow and improve.