Embracing Redirection: A Journey of Self-Validation

Finding Clarity in Connection

Last Thursday, I embarked on my annual girls’ trip. This event is something I look forward to every year. What dawned on me recently is that we always do this during Mental Health Awareness Month. Perhaps that’s not coincidental.

This beautiful timing has always been significant. This gathering serves as my sacred time to disconnect. I laugh until my stomach hurts and just be. It has long been my way of preserving my mental health, even before I understood it.

Yet, this year was different. Even while I tried to be present, I found myself constantly checking my email.

The Wait for Validation

I was anxiously waiting for one thing: the validation of a simple yes.

I had reapplied for a competitive Diversity Executive Leadership Program. All weekend, I kept refreshing my inbox, hoping to see the words that would affirm what I already knew: "Yes, girl—we’ve made space for you. You belong here."

But, sadly, the answer was no.

Twelve people were chosen from a highly competitive pool, and once again, I wasn't one of them.

I desired to be part of this program, but I struggled to understand why it mattered so much. If I’m being completely honest, I wanted something more profound:

• I wanted to be seen.

• I wanted to be chosen.

• I wanted to be invested in.

  
  

I craved amplification and support. Over time, my many applications became less about the opportunity and more about what this one thing would prove.

That I belong.

That I’m visible.

That I’m doing enough.

Redirection, Not Rejection

Here’s the truth I discovered amid the love and support from women in my life who know me:

"You don't need to keep auditioning for spaces you already belong in."

Today's post isn’t focused on rejection; it’s about redirection. I owe this mindset shift to my husband, my mentor, and my incredible tribe—Willette, Martha, Nina, Jacqueline, and many others.

Sometimes it hurts not just to hear the no, but also to awaken the questions that follow: Am I behind? Am I missing something? Am I being left out on purpose?

At times, we chase opportunities, believing they’ll unlock doors to rooms we were already built for. We often seek validation more than the opportunities themselves. And when a door closes, it’s not a dead end—it can be a sign urging us to try a different path or approach.

A New Foundation and Direction

Consider varying your blog format each month. One month could be a "day in the life," while the next might focus on a "How-To" or a Q&A. There are numerous templates to kickstart your creativity.

The gift of hearing “not right now” has made me reflect on where my energy truly belongs.

Instead of seeking external validation, I am committed to creating my own leadership visibility:

• Increasing my contributions to LinkedIn and industry publications.

• Submitting proposals to share my insights at conferences and events.

• Building authentic communities within my professional networks.

  
  

This leads me to a pivotal question: What’s my humblebrag?

What's My Humblebrag?

My humblebrag is this: I already lead. I already mentor. I already build impact from the inside out.

While I believe the program would have been fortunate to shape me, the truth is, I’m shaping myself. That realization is a clear indicator that I’m already on the right path.

This Mental Health Awareness Month reminds me that my well-being is intertwined with my professional journey. Sometimes, the healthiest choice is finding peace in pivoting—doing so with power and grace.

If you’ve ever questioned your worth after a door closed, you’re not alone. I'm comforted by the idea that I’m not the only one still evolving, still rising, and still worthy.

Let’s say this together, with confidence:

You are not behind.

You are not lacking.

You are not invisible.

Holding Space After a "No"

To everyone holding space for themselves after hearing "no": I SEE YOU.

Keep Seeking Happiness and Elevation in whatever feels authentic to you. Sometimes, rejection isn’t just redirection—it’s an invitation to discover something even more aligned with who you are and where you’re meant to go.

What’s your humblebrag? How has redirection influenced your journey? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

I also want to give a shoutout to Joshua René—a brilliant voice in the leadership and DEI space. He often speaks about the significance of humble bragging. His insights remind us that celebrating our impact isn’t arrogance; it’s alignment. We can acknowledge our growth, influence, and brilliance without shrinking or over-explaining.

By embracing our journeys and lifting each other up, we create a community where everyone can thrive.