Exclusive Q&A: Women Professionals Turn Challenges into Growth -- Only at SPECS
Female professionals that embrace challenges are primed for career growth, innovation and reinvention.
Taking chances, seeking professional “sponsors” and learning from setbacks are among the strategies that can jumpstart female professionals’ leadership journeys. SPECS, March 9-11, at the Gaylord Texan in Grapevine, will highlight these and other trends creating positive career opportunities. (Click here to register for the conference.)
Tamiko Olabintan, executive coach & CEO Advisor for Tamiko Monic Enterprise, spoke with Chain Store Age to discuss the opportunities transforming women’s career trajectories.
What does "the power of possibility" mean to you?
“The power of possibility” is about not being confined by the limits that others set for you—or the ones you set for yourself. The biggest breakthroughs in my career happened when I started seeing beyond what was in front of me and believing in what could be. This mindset shift takes you from "I hope this happens" to "I’m making this happen."
I’ve seen the power of possibility unfold in my own journey. There were times I thought I had to follow a traditional career path, but when I started embracing opportunities outside of what I initially planned —doors I never imagined started opening. Possibility is about expanding your vision and taking action, even when you don’t have all the answers.
How should female professionals apply that phrase to their career journeys?
Women need to give themselves permission to think bigger and redefine success on their own terms. Too often, we wait for someone to tap us on the shoulder, offer us the promotion, or tell us we’re ready. Possibility isn’t about waiting — it’s about “positioning.”
Embracing possibility means saying yes to challenges before you feel 100% ready — not limiting yourself to a single path. Your career is a portfolio of experiences, not a ladder you have to climb one rung at a time. And always expand your network, the right connections can introduce you to opportunities you never considered.
When I started thinking this way, I stopped waiting for permission and started creating opportunities for myself. That’s when everything shifted.
What challenges do women still face in their leadership journeys?
One of the biggest challenges women face isn’t external barriers — it’s internal ones like self-doubt and perfectionism. I’ve sat in rooms where I was just as qualified (if not more) than others, yet I second-guessed myself while they confidently took up space.
There are systemic challenges too, like the lack of sponsorship. Women often get mentored but not sponsored. We need people who advocate for us in rooms we’re not in.
Then there’s the unrealistic expectations, including pressure to “do it all:” you be a high performer, manage a household, stay likable, and still ask for more. For many of us, it’s being overlooked for leadership roles because we’re seen as capable but not as leaders.
What I’ve learned is that confidence and visibility are just as important as competence. Women must speak up, own their expertise, and build relationships with decision-makers. The reality is, no one is coming to save you. You have to advocate for yourself and strategically position yourself for the opportunities you want.
How can challenges transform women’s career trajectories?
I used to see setbacks as failures. Now, I see them as redirects to something greater. Some of the biggest transformations in my career happened because of challenges. Not getting the position I thought I should have received pushed me to explore an even better opportunity. Receiving tough feedback rather than agreeing with it or not forced me to refine my skills and become stronger.
Challenges force growth, innovation and reinvention. If you’re facing resistance in your career, ask yourself, “What is this challenge trying to teach me?” Every obstacle carries an opportunity—you just have to be willing to look for it.
What role does self-reflection play when tapping into leadership goals?
Leadership isn’t just about skill—it’s about awareness. If you don’t take time to step back and reflect, you’ll find yourself constantly grinding without direction.
When I take time to reflect, I ask myself:
•Am I moving in a direction that aligns with my bigger goals?
•What am I avoiding because it feels uncomfortable? (Growth lives outside of comfort.)
•Am I making decisions from a place of confidence or fear?
Every time I pause to reflect, I gain clarity and make better, more intentional moves. To tap into leadership, start by understanding yourself — your strengths, fears and aspirations. The more self-aware you are, the more powerful your leadership will be.
What advice would you give a female professional hoping to take the next step in their leadership journey?
What I’ve learned — and wish I had known earlier — is that leadership isn’t about waiting to be chosen. It’s about stepping up and choosing yourself.
Here’s how:
•Own Your Success: Stop playing small. Speak up about your achievements and don’t wait for permission to lead.
•Take the Leap Before You Feel Ready: I’ve never taken a role where I felt 100% prepared — growth happens in the stretch zone.
•Seek Sponsors, Not Just Mentors: A mentor gives advice; a sponsor opens doors. Find the people who will advocate for you.
•Build a Career Portfolio, Not Just a Resume: Collect experiences, skills and relationships that make you indispensable.
•Don’t Wait for the Perfect Moment — Just Start. Leadership is built through action. You’re capable, you’re ready, and your possibilities are limitless.
To hear more of Olabintan’s transformational career tips, join us at SPECS. Click here to register.