Over the years, I’ve gotten stuck in a career rut. I’ve stayed in a position too long, hated on my former bosses for not giving me the plum assignments and refused additional training even when I know I needed it. Sound familiar? You may very well be sitting there at your desk perusing the Internet, reading this blog, thinking: “Damn, how she know that?” Because I’ve been there and done this more times than I care to admit. One thing that helps me out of a rut is educating myself. My office is littered with career books jam packed with smart advice, new ways of thinking and practical exercises that I can and do try on my peers and bosses. However, it only works if your committed to change. Lawd, I need to remember that the next time I don’t want to go to spinning class.
Ok, back to work. Check out the books below. They are written by some dynamic African-American women who have walked in your shoes. They talk about everything from facing racism head on to understanding that you should have more than one mentor to help you reach all of your career goals. I call on them when I’m in a rut and every time they help me to shake the fear, stand up straight and start marching toward my greatness. Read on to point your compass in the right direction:
1. The Missing Mentor: Women Advising Women on Power, Progress and Priorities by Mary E. Stutts. Provides just the right dose of career guidance for those needing a mentor in their pocket.
2. The Little Black Book of Success: Laws of Leadership for Black Women by Elaine Meryl Brown, Marsha Haygood and Rohonda Joy McLean. Offers poignant advice to women of color on how to success in any setting.
3. Career GPS: Strategies for Women Navigating in the New Corporate Landscape by Ella L. J. Edmonson Bell, Ph.D. Presents a road map for traveling on a new career path.
4. Deliver the Package; Simple Truths to Help You Set Your Genius Free by Stephanie Chick. Gives you the tools to unleash your power in the workplace.