This is a contributor post by Kate Rossi, regional executive VP eastern region for NRT
One of my greatest accomplishments is having a grown daughter who tells me I am her role model. When I see the strong, confident woman she’s become, it makes me extremely proud, especially when I think about the path that led us both to this point in our lives.
It wasn’t always easy. In fact, it was downright hard. Building a career as a single mother is the biggest challenge I have faced. Advancing up the proverbial ladder is tough when you’re also juggling homework, school events and sports activities. It’s a concern that keeps many parents, and I think especially mothers, up at night. I was constantly questioning whether I was doing the right thing for my child and for my career. There was a lot of guilt. But I was determined to be both a full-time mom and a successful businesswoman.
I started my career as a real estate agent in Pittsburgh and later moved into management. When I received the offer to become president of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Colorado, it was an exciting, but daunting, opportunity. I was leaving behind my friends and family – my support network – and the jump in responsibility was enormous. I probably should’ve been more afraid. But I knew that if I didn’t grab that opportunity, I would regret it. Accepting the promotion was a pivotal, career-changing and life-altering event. If I hadn’t taken that leap, I would never be where I am today.
Through the years, I have become convinced that you must never shy away from a challenge. Instead, embrace it for what it is – an opportunity to grow and shine. The key to it all is being present in the moment, whether you’re in the boardroom or on the sidelines of a high school basketball game. You can’t allow yourself to get sidetracked. Women just have an innate need to fix things and try to be all things to all people. It can weigh heavily on us. Over time I’ve learned that if you work hard, on both your professional and personal life, you get proven results.
When I just stay focused, in the moment, I can do anything I set my mind to!
If you’re a part of the Coldwell Banker network and interested in listening to the next Women in Leadership call, be sure to visit CB Exchange and search “Women in leadership” to find out the details. To find out more about how Coldwell Banker can be the place that supports you and your business, visit CBWomen.com.
