Here's my growth breakdown.
Where I was in December: Nervous in large rooms, over-prepared to compensate. Written communication was collaborative but not commanding. Managed myself heavily during high-stakes moments.
What shifted: Daily prep became discipline, not anxiety. Learned to lead a room instead of present to it. Written style became professional and directive. People respond differently now. Total shift in eye contact. Very comfortable now. Started coaching myself: watching, learning, iterating.
Where I am now: Prepped for a VP demo this month. Structured, familiar process. No nerves. Show up in meetings the way I show up in 1:1s when I'm leading. Less self-aware, more comfortable with pace. The discipline is affording me freedom. I stay disciplined, but play free. Since December, I've been asked to take on 4 additional DRI roles and approved to grow a new product team in my org. A direct result of the lessons learned and confidence gained in class.
I'm grateful for what you've kickstarted in me. Looking forward to the call.
