Women on the Rise: Knowing When to Make a Change in Your Career

Navigating Challenges, Embracing Growth, and Owning Your Worth as a Black Woman

The question of whether to stay in your current position or make a career shift is one that many young women, especially Black women, wrestle with. Navigating our careers means dealing not only with the challenges of growth and change but also with the unique obstacles that come with our identities. My career journey—from teaching in middle school classrooms to serving as a communications strategist and leader in local government across the nation—offers lessons for young women facing these realities.

Knowing When It’s Time to Move

For Black women, the decision to leave a position often carries extra weight. It’s not just about growth; it’s about survival, dignity, and sometimes, safety. Early in my career, as a sixth-grade teacher, I faced a defining moment that helped me realize when it was time to move on.

My administrator called me into her office one day to reprimand me for tutoring my students before and after school. She told me, "They should be able to absorb the material in class." I was stunned but knew I needed to stand up for my students. My response was simple yet pointed:

"When was the last time you were 11 years old and had to sit through a 90-minute class every other day?"

She looked at me, shocked. I continued: "I have students from all walks of life. Some came to me after Hurricane Katrina by way of another school in the metro area. They are at different learning levels, and they need my help. Based on the rules you've imposed, when one student needs to go to the bathroom, I have to take the entire class. And because of the A day/B day schedule, my students see me every other day. My job is to educate them, and I will do that however I can."

Her response was a frown and a verbal reprimand. After being chastised, I looked her in the eye and said: "I have a duty to meet my students where they are and will do so until they feel accomplished."

I turned and walked out of her office. When I returned to my classroom, I cried. I cried out of frustration because I was confused. I understood my duty, but I saw that others were more concerned about appearances and rigid policies than the education of the students we were supposed to serve. I realized in that moment that my values and the system’s priorities didn’t align. I had to make a decision.

This experience taught me an important lesson: when your values and the mission of your workplace no longer align, it’s time to start planning your exit.

So how do you know when to make a change? Ask yourself:

• Am I growing or just surviving? If you’re pouring your energy into a role that doesn’t challenge or support you, it may be time to go.
• Is this environment healthy for me? Toxic workplaces are unfortunately common, especially for Black women. If you’re facing microaggressions, being overlooked, or undervalued, you must prioritize your well-being.
• Does this align with my future goals? Every role should be a stepping stone toward where you want to be, not a stumbling block.

The Reality of Being a Black Woman in the Workplace

Our experiences in the workplace are unique. As Black women, we often face a trifecta of challenges: racism, sexism, and the constant expectation to prove ourselves in ways others don’t have to. Unfortunately, these challenges often manifest in deeply disrespectful and sometimes traumatic ways.

I believe that some of my colleagues have struggled to fathom the hard work it has taken for me to reach a leadership position. Early in my career, I was working late one evening. As I passed a male colleague’s office, he greeted me, and we began discussing an upcoming project. Mid-conversation, he casually said, “Why don’t you come dance on my desk?”

Taken aback, I reminded him that I knew his family. Later, I told him directly: "I’ve worked just as hard to get to where I am as you have. Such disrespect will not be tolerated."

It wasn’t the first time I had to defend my place in the workplace, and unfortunately, it wouldn’t be the last.

In another role, a workplace incident turned physical. I had ordered food for my team, and a leader came into my office to discuss a project. On their way out, they picked up a slice of pizza and ate it, forgetting it went against their dietary restrictions. Instead of handling the situation like a professional, this person stormed back into my office, grabbed me by the neck, and pushed me against the wall in anger.

I was shaken, but one thing was clear: I had to leave.

Beyond these blatant instances of harassment and disrespect, I’ve faced subtler forms of inequity throughout my career. In many roles, I’ve had to build departments and strategies from the ground up without being given the appropriate budget, resources, or staff to succeed. I’ve watched others get promoted or celebrated while my contributions were overlooked.

Yet, in each of these situations, I learned something invaluable: what my worth is as an individual and as a professional.

Drawing Strength From the Struggles

Despite these challenges, I’ve built a career I’m proud of. From transforming Richmond’s digital presence, community experiences, internal workplace communications and experiences to leading communications strategies in Miami Gardens, Washington State, and Sacramento, I’ve proven my ability to thrive—even in environments that weren’t designed for me to succeed.

The hard truth is that many workplaces are not equipped to fully embrace the brilliance and strength of Black women. We often find ourselves having to fight for respect, recognition, and resources. But these fights have taught me resilience and sharpened my ability to lead.

Preparing for Your Next Move

When you’re considering a career move, preparation is essential:

• Build a support system: Whether it’s mentors, peers, or professional organizations, find people who understand your journey and can offer guidance.
• Know your worth: You bring value, and you deserve to be compensated and respected accordingly. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise.
• Own your story: I learned to frame my narrative in ways that highlighted my strengths. You’re not just a professional—you’re a force.

Encouragement for Black Women on the Rise

To every young Black woman reading this, I want you to know: you are not alone. The challenges you face are real, but so is your strength. You don’t have to tolerate environments that disrespect or diminish you. You deserve to be celebrated, valued, and supported.

Every time I faced a setback, I found a lesson. Every time I encountered disrespect, I redefined my boundaries. Every time I made a career move, it was because I knew my worth and wasn’t willing to settle for less.

Closing Thoughts

Your first five years have laid a foundation. The next five years are about building something extraordinary. Recognize your worth, advocate for yourself, and don’t be afraid to make the leap when the opportunity arises. You are the architect of your career, and the world needs what only you can offer.