When interviewing interesting and inspiring people about their careers on Women’s Agenda, we often throw in the ’18-year-old self’ question. That is, the advice you might have for the woman you were when you’d just officially hit adulthood.
But we don’t ask it for the sake of our 18-year-old readers, who sadly don’t yet make up a significant portion of our community (please encourage them to sign up here), but rather as a simple marker point for sharing advice on what you’d do if you were starting all over again.
The thing about starting out is that you don’t have to be 18 or in first few years of your career to make a change. Really, you can start again whenever you feel like it.
The ‘advice to your 18-year-old self’ question has been a reoccurring one in our #100StoriesProject, in which we’ve been telling 100 different stories of female leaders since January 1 this year, and has thus become a topic we can quickly collate answers on in order to share trends that emerge.
The question is also similar to one we’re asking speakers at the upcoming YWCA She Leads Conference in Canberra, an event for young female leaders that’s supported by Women’s Agenda (and which our Network members can access a discount to attend). The first of these opinion pieces comes from CEO of Arts Access Australia Emma Bennison, who writes about learning that there’s “no room for self protection” when it comes to witnessing things that are wrong or you simply don’t agree with. It is frightening to take a stand, but ultimately empowering when you see the result.
As for the answers we’ve uncovered in the 30 or profiles published in the #100StoriesProject, overarching themes of confidence, embracing risk, and permission to make mistakes have emerged. There are calls to “stop worrying” to “believe” and to “be receptive” to the advice from others.
There is also the frequently-offered advice to “back yourself” — which we know is always easier said than done, especially when it comes to being 18 years old and wondering what you’re going to do with the rest of your life. Then there are the women who urge their younger selves to realise that careers and directions can change, that it’s ok to take your time and to create your own path. Really, “things generally work out”.
Meanwhile, there’s the advice that not a lot of 18-year-olds actually get to hear: that a career can and should be fun.
Check out some of the initial responses to the question given below, and let us know what you’d tell your ’18-year-old self’, or anyone who’s willing to simply make a new start.
“That Dad was right and that I can do anything that I put my mind to and that everyone around me is not necessarily smarter than me, they have just learnt different things to me, so keep learning!”
Anita Mitchell, head of environmental and social sustainability strategy for Sydney’s $6 billion Barangaroo South project.
“Dye your hair hot pink much sooner. It’s the best personal branding move your will ever make! No one will ever forget you.”
Lucy Perry, CEO of Hamlin Fistula Ethiopia.
“Do something you love, and I think I’ve done that. I was probably a little more cautious a long the way than I would be if I went back. I’ve had so many opportunities and so many times to move – I probably would have moved faster.”
Cindy Hook, CEO of Deloitte Australia.
“Don’t worry whether people like you, or if you’re being nice to everyone. Trust you’re a good person.”
Julie McKay, director of UN Women.
“Don’t listen to your internal voice that could hold back your confidence and self worth. Be authentic. Value what you do, surround yourself with good people and don’t stand in the shadows. Most of all, really hard work and risk taking will pay off in the long run. If you are someone who is the first to complain, “but that’s not my job” when something new needs doing, you will be holding back your chance to learn and grow.
Melanie Raymond, who leads and chairs several not-for-profits, including Youth Projects.
“Don’t worry, it will all be fine and be patient.”
Christina Matthews, former Australian cricketer and CEO of the Western Australia Cricket Association.
“Take more risks and don’t quit too early! I know that sometimes you get overwhelmed and it can feel easier to run away (I’m an introvert with a ‘flight’ not ‘fight’ instinct!) but stick it out just that bit longer or take that leap of faith. It’ll always work out – you have the strength and ability to make it work out. Back yourself.”
Jo-Ann Hicks, head of strategy, mobile and customer programs at eBay.
“What I’ve learned over my career is to say yes to opportunities. I would, coyly and modestly say, ‘I don’t know if I’m ready!’ And then find I wouldn’t be asked! Women need to be confident about who they are and recognise the strengths that you have rather than the weakness.”
Shirley Randell AO, a former CEO who’s still maintaining an international career in her 70s.
“Calm down! You don’t need to take over the world today!”
Sarah Turner, General Counsel of EBOS Group.
“Be fearless. Believe. Think big. Thick twice. Don’t rush into things.”
Lauren Hall, founder of events platform, Ivvy.
“Believe in yourself. You are stronger than you think. You will go far beyond what you ever dreamed, if only you dare to dream.”
Dr Jennifer Martin, Structural biology professor.
“Don’t be afraid to change direction.”
Jacque Comery, a senior environmental engineer who will this month commence a 12-month stint n the Australian Antarctic Station at Macquarie Island.
“Look after yourself. Take time out so your brain can think, and look after both your body and your brain. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Seek out mentors, and learn from them. Everyone you meet can teach something to you oroffer you something to learn from. Remember, we’re all the same, don’t ever feel inferior to anyone.”
Kim McGuinness, Network Central and Mentor Central founder.