When She Became the Expert in the Room

I think we become experts long before we recognize ourselves as one. There's something magical about realizing that years of learning have turned into wisdom others now seek and trust... and what a beautiful gift it is to pass that wisdom forward

I have been the answer person for most of my career. I think it had to do with my role as a store manager. I had to have the answers to help the Designers complete projects. If I didn't have the answers, I would find it! I also teach a designer how to find the answer, then they know exactly what to do next time. Life lesson. ALWAYS BE LEARNING

I knew something had shifted when peers and senior leaders started coming to me not just for what I knew, but because they felt safe admitting what they didn't.

I agree, expertise can sneak up on us. I tend to live in Learner mode, continuously taking in perspectives, experiences, and knowledge, until the pieces begin to connect like a puzzle. Then, I can step back and see the bigger picture with clarity. Expertise is not simply knowing the answer; it's being able to connect the dots, offer perspective, and use what you know to help others move forward.

Imposter Syndrome isn't real-, it's an urban legend we use to cover for under-confidence. The day I realized that I was capable, was the day I realized I didn't need to feel inadequate. When I finally recognized all that I myself brought to the table; my talents, my abilities, and my faith. It was the day that I said my last name, not as an ethnic unicorn to stumble over, but as a unique identifier to be proud of. It was the day I silenced my inner critic, and allowed myself to shine. And this is why I mentor others to focus on what they are capable of, to believe in what is in their heart, and to always follow their dreams.

The first moment I really noticed that shift was when I was asked to present a project I had recently completed to a room of high school students interested in Architecture and Engineering. It was a humbling experience to see myself in them, to remember being where they were, wondering what a career in architecture might look like, and learning about the profession for the first time. Now, I was standing in front of them talking about a building I had designed and sharing my own journey through architecture school and into the profession. It was in that moment that I realized how far I had come. I had spent years learning from professors, mentors, colleagues, and those around me, and suddenly I was the person others were looking to for knowledge and perspective. More than realizing that I had become an expert, I realized the responsibility that comes with it. My experience and story could have an impact on someone who was just beginning their own journey. It reminded me that expertise isn't just about what you know, it's also about being willing to share what you've learned and help create a path for those coming behind you.

Accuracy First, Speed Takes Care of Itself.