Recently, I had the opportunity to be a guest on the Conversaciones con ALPFA podcast. ALPFA is the Association of Latino Professionals for America. The talented host, Vanessa Schwippert, asked me a thought-provoking question: “What would you tell your younger self today?“

This question took me on an emotional journey as I reflected on my experiences as a 14-year-old immigrant in the United States. As I pondered my response, I realized that the advice I would give my younger self could also resonate with many others facing obstacles and pursuing their dreams.

Everything Will Be Okay

As a 14-year-old, I arrived in this country as a freshman in high school, feeling vulnerable, scared, and simultaneously hopeful for a brighter future. I had no idea what my journey would entail—learning English, navigating college, and finding my way in a new culture. 

Looking back, I would tell my younger self…

“Everything is going to be okay. Everything’s going to work out.” 

Despite the uncertainties and challenges, I held onto my vision of breaking the cycle of poverty and becoming a professional woman.

Today, I invite you to embrace this perspective because if we have faith and look back over the decades and seasons of our lives, eventually, regardless of what happened, you are here!

You’ll Figure It Out

At that tender age of 14, I was like a fish out of water, not knowing what I didn’t know. However, I would reassure my younger self that, day by day, taking one step at a time, I would figure things out. 

I didn’t need a complete map outlining every step; I just needed to focus on taking that first step forward, aligning with my vision. 

Every step would lead me to the next one, revealing the path as I progressed.

For you, what’s your next best step, even if it’s not ideal?

You currently have input and details supporting you in making that next decision. Remember your vision, who you want to be, and the impact you want to have, and take that next step–whatever that is for you.

The Power of Support

One of the most important things I would tell my 14-year-old self is that I would receive the support of beautiful people who would help turn my vision into reality. 

Throughout my journey, I have been blessed with wonderful mentors, sponsors, and advocates who believed in me, trusted me, and opened doors to opportunities. 

From my college classmates, who helped me navigate challenging coursework, to my managers, who recognized my talent and championed my growth, I have been influenced by individuals who have significantly impacted my life.

You have allies, mentors, sponsors, and coaches who believe in you–even when you haven’t labeled them that. They are in your corner.

How can you lean on them for additional support?

How can they help guide your next step?

Giving Back and Being of Service

My 14-year-old self would feel very excited and relieved to know that today, at 55, we’ve made it! We have accomplished what we’ve set out to do–and we’re free! Free of mind, financially independent, free to go wherever we want, and spiritually flowing. 

As we concluded our podcast interview, I reminded myself, as I answered Vanessa, that one of my most meaningful passions is giving back and serving the younger generations following in my footsteps. 

Similarly, it is crucial for those of us in decision-making positions to explore ways to develop and support women and female leaders within our organizations. 

Women have an innate desire to honor their homes, families, and work while helping others. 

It is heartbreaking to witness talented individuals who expect their hard work alone to lead to promotions and advancement, only to discover that it takes more than that.

We must continuously invest in ourselves and our talent, including surrounding ourselves with the right growth-minded people, to create a mutually encouraging environment of allyship, providing a fertile ground for professional and personal growth.

Investing in Talent Development

If I use my example as a case study, our organizations must invest in their rising stars, high performers, and talented individuals to attract, develop, and retain the best talent for the future. 

As individuals, we must own our career development, be intentional about cultivating critical leadership skills, and seek the support of those who can provide solutions for our developmental goals. 

This is where I step in, offering turnkey solutions designed specifically for the lifestyle of busy, talented women and leaders and partnering with organizations to implement these solutions effectively.

If I could leave my 14-year-old self with one final message, it would be, “Ginny, you got this.” 

No matter where you are in your professional journey, focus on taking one single step toward your vision.

Like I’ve done for decades, I encourage you to embrace the support of those around you and trust that each step will lead you closer to your goals. 

To all the leaders and decision-makers out there, let us work together to develop and empower the women and leaders in your organization, creating a legacy of positive change and a healthy pipeline of future leaders.