My story begins much like every other, Type-A personality’s story. A perennial straight A student and over-achiever, by the time I was 24 I had my master’s from an Ivy League school and launched my career. Like many of you, I eventually became a corporate HIPO (high-potential leader) targeted for advancement and future leadership roles. Working inside of global companies like The Coca-Cola Company and Ernst & Young (Big 4 consulting), I spent 12 years climbing the corporate ladder. I never said “no” to an opportunity – at Coca-Cola alone, I had 3 major promotions in 3 years. I worked my tail off, including many nights and weekends, travelled constantly and seldom took more than a week of vacation a year. The work was fascinating and the professional and financial rewards were great. I had wonderful colleagues and I was challenged intellectually and learning and growing, every day.
But the picture was far from perfect. After years of working this way, I was often sick and physically exhausted. I was also really lonely. I had had little time for dating and for friendships outside of work. As seductive and rewarding as my career was, it wasn’t fulfilling me as a person and as a woman. I wanted a husband, home and a family. I also started having dreams of running my own business, and working/living from a more balanced and sustainable rhythm.
Be careful what you wish for….
