My generation was taught that the world was our oyster and we could follow our dreams. Good, bad or indifferent, I firmly believed that we were free to choose whatever it is we wanted to do in life—and I’m here to tell you that this timeless piece of advice is still true.
Those words inspired me to push boundaries and embrace new challenges so that I could achieve my career goals. In my 20+ years of professional experience, four key principles have helped to guide me throughout my career and in my current position as Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Brunswick Corporation.
To my younger self and individuals seeking to move forward in their career, I would say:
- Don’t let anyone put you in an artificial “box.” In fact, you should reject the thought that there even is a “box.” I would never allow others to give me boundaries or limits, which helped me push myself further to reach my ultimate potential.
- Your hard work will pay off. Along with hard work, support from others in your corner and a lot of grace, you’ll achieve your dreams. This mentality enabled me to go on to get a degree in Computer Science, two other advanced degrees and further my career in Information Technology, a field that has traditionally been known as male-dominated.
- Do you. We all have gifts and talents. Therefore, if you have the heart and the passion for an area, don’t be afraid to take on new roles, new opportunities or new challenges, even if it is something that has not been traditionally done by a woman—or potentially never been done before period. These things should not be a factor.
- Take risks. Venture out of your comfort zone to take risks based on your passion, talents and dreams, and NOT anyone else’s artificial box. You won’t regret it.
So, younger self, continue pursuing your passion and create the career of your dreams. With hard work and perseverance, you will see the world really is your oyster.
We’re always looking for leaders to join our team. Visit Brunswick-Careers.com to learn more.
Danielle Brown is Vice President and Chief Information Officer of Brunswick Corporation. Ms. Brown joined Brunswick from DuPont, where she led global IT transformation. She is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and has held numerous positions of increasing responsibility within Information Technology, serving in operations and corporate assignments in the United States and Asia. Ms. Brown received a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, as well as earning a Master of Science in Information Systems and an MBA from Pennsylvania State University and Drexel University, respectively.
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