When the Ladder Isn’t Enough: Real Women on Career Alignment

In 4th grade, when everyone else dreamed of being doctors or firefighters, I told my teacher I wanted to be an executive — because I pictured myself at the front of the boardroom table in a sharp suit and heels, calling the shots.

For the last 20 years, marketing became the bridge between those ambitions and my creativity. I chased the ladder, collected titles, and even the paycheck that afforded comfort for my family. But somewhere along the climb, I realized I didn’t love the view.

That realization planted the seed for She EmpowHers. And it’s why, when we wrote Rethinking Career Growth, I asked other women to share their truths about alignment. Their stories reminded me: this isn’t just my journey — it’s ours.

Real Voices, Real Lessons

When we asked women across industries what alignment in their career really means, their responses were candid, layered, and powerful.

On titles and purpose

“The biggest surprise for me was learning that titles and paychecks don’t equal purpose. True alignment came when I stepped into spaces where my skills could serve people and create real impact.”

– Akilah

Lesson: Titles may measure progress, but they don’t always measure growth. Purpose turns work into impact.

On pivots and freedom

“I realized within the last year that this idea of setting sights on one career path/career identity is not really reflective of real life. There are, and should be, multiple pivots and pathways that open along this journey… It’s lifelong, baby!”

– Danielle

Lesson: Careers are not one-time decisions. They’re journeys full of pivots that can still lead to joy, stability, and impact.

On self-advocacy and growth

“I’ve had to learn how to advocate for myself — for my pay, for respect, for my growth. Loyalty doesn’t exist the way it used to. I have to do what’s best for me.”

– Tiffany

Lesson: Alignment sometimes means breaking old rules about loyalty and tenure, and learning to advocate for yourself first.

On peace over prestige

“I worked remotely as a SQL coder… I had the best of both worlds — remote work, making tons of money, and free flights home. BUT I HATED IT! Moral: I choose PEACE and HAPPINESS over everything!”

– TK Deadwyler

Lesson: Success isn’t just about money or perks. Sometimes alignment looks like peace.

On unseen labor

“15 years with the same company… promotions in title only, minimal raises, no authority. I was always the one asked to train the new managers, while being called ‘kiddo’ or ‘little lady.’ It wasn’t until new leadership came in that I felt seen, heard, and supported. Now, I finally know promotion is within reach.”

– Leslie

Lesson: Recognition matters. Alignment is about being valued as much as it is about the work itself.

On resilience and faith

“The discipline and consistency to remain aligned when people, places, and opportunities attempt to block or take credit… The journey requires discernment to know when to stand alone and when to build with a team. Prayer, obedience, and fearlessness are what carry me forward.”

– Amber

Lesson: Alignment requires both inner strength and community.

Gentle Close

If you’ve ever felt like the ladder didn’t fit, you’re not alone. These women remind us that career growth isn’t about racing to the top — it’s about finding alignment in every season.

Your career doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. It just has to feel like yours.

When you’re ready, we’ll hold space for you to build a career — and a life — that reflects you. Join the Waitlist. Bring a friend. Let’s unlock your main character energy together.