The words weren't planned. I had no notes, and it wasn't even a conscious thought when I was asked to share my story. But the moment I said it, everything changed. 

I spoke the words during the closing moments of an interview on the "Achieve with Me" podcast, hosted by Rachel Gilfrin. Our meeting was serendipitous – as I navigated a massive career change, I faced the daunting task of deciding my salary for a brand-new role in an industry known to be financially rewarding with generous compensation packages. Haunted by the knowledge that women often undersell themselves, I was determined to get this right.  Seeking guidance, I turned to a personal development community I had recently joined, and Rachel answered the call. (More on that career leap later – spoiler alert, it all worked out perfectly).

On the podcast, I shared my approach to work and life: actively deciding on my values and desired experiences. As I shared with her, about 6 years before the COVID-19...