Dianna’s moments that changed the way she thought about a ‘career’.

Changing my mindset.

I was in class, on my way to becoming a doctor, just like everyone said I would. Four years of university down, entry exams and interviews complete… I was exactly where I had always hoped I would be, but something wasn’t right…

Outside of class I was energetic, inquisitive, excited and always curious. Through my work I got to enjoy collaboration, innovation, risk taking and a fast paced environment. As soon as I walked into class I fell in line, just like all the other students. Going through the same routine of learning, revising and sitting exams. Following the instructions to the tee, competing with all the other future doctors and completing losing myself. 

But I asked myself, “how could I leave?” My parents, teachers and friends had all told me I should be a doctor. I had already committed four years to medicine!? 

It wasn’t until I changed the question I was asking… “How can I stay?” When I realised the opportunity cost of staying, my life changed.

Learning: The cost of staying on a path that isn’t aligned with who I am, what I love or who I want to be, is far greater than that of letting down those around me.

Own who you are, or others will.

I was 22 years old and about to present to a board room full of managers and directors, 20 years my senior. 

While it shouldn’t have mattered, as the youngest and only female manager it was typically difficult to command attention in these types of meetings. It was difficult to be taken seriously and it was difficult to be seen and heard as an equal. After long enough, it became difficult to believe I was an equal. 

I imagined that this would be like every other meeting. They would all talk through my entire presentation, forget the handouts I gave them on the table, leave the room and go about their day. 

But this time, I decided it would be different. Before I walked in, I made the decision that I am their equal. I decided that I am worthy of being in the room. I decided that I am worthy of their attention and respect. 

So I took a deep breath and opened the doors. That day I walked in standing a little bit taller, speaking a little bit louder. I walked in knowing and believing that I deserved to be there. That day, no one spoke through my presentation. No one left their handouts behind.

Learning: You must believe in your own worth before anyone else can. Walk into every room knowing that you deserve to be there.