Never impose limits on your own growth

I started my career as a fresh engineering graduate in semiconductor R&D, taking on diverse

leadership roles

and managing both operational deliveries and cross-functional projects. Three years ago, I transitioned to the

digital transformation

organisation to lead a major transformation, marking a significant shift in my career. Additionally, I am a leadership coach, and I value being part of an organisation that champions employee development through significant role transitions.Embrace Diverse OpportunitiesEarly in my career, I was fortunate to have managers who empowered me to think independently and share my opinions. This shaped my professional outlook and helped me understand my strengths and the value I bring to my organisation. Embracing diverse opportunities within and beyond my organisation has allowed me to build a meaningful network. Genuine contributions make one valuable, allowing networks to grow organically, and networks attract more networks.Pivotal moment in my career

I have always been willing to step up when organisational challenges arise. Opportunities often come disguised as challenges, and it is important to have the courage to embrace the unknown and challenge the status quo. One pivotal moment in my career was deciding to pursue executive management at Berkeley Haas, 15 years into my career, while also managing two school-going children. Another significant shift was transitioning into an entirely new domain of digital transformation. Neither of these decisions was easy, but they reinforced my belief that growth comes from pushing beyond comfort zones.Prioritise Your CareerTo women navigating their professional journeys, my advice is to prioritise your career and treat it as a fundamental part of your life, not just an add-on. Do not hesitate to seek support when needed – at home, lean on your family and support system, and at work, reach out to colleagues for guidance. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a strength that will significantly contribute to success. Invest in building both strong and weak ties within your professional network – strong ties provide dependable support, while weak ties can introduce new perspectives and opportunities. Above all, never impose limits on your own growth. Learning, evolving, and taking on new challenges will open doors to possibilities beyond what you initially envisioned.Rashna Seli Zaroo is senior group manager at ST India