How I got here
“I am a believer in the 90/10 rule – 10% is what life gives you; 90% is what you make of it. You are the architects of your destiny!“
Malvika Singh, Founding Partner Impact
What was your dream career as a girl?
I dreamt of being a neuroscientist/physician and still dream about it. I am exploring ways to do this…
What was your aha-moment when you realized that gender stereotypes may (or do) have an impact on your career development?
How did you deal with it?
My big aha moment came early in my career at a point where I felt it was stagnating. This was the late 80’s, I was a young female engineer working at a Chemicals, male-dominated firm. I felt there was a glass ceiling, I was “too” young, my boss did not like me and I could not get very far.
A coach asked me the question, “If anything were possible, what would you love to achieve?” I was skeptical but given that she challenged me I set two “impossible” goals for myself:
1. To establish the European office of the Specialty Chemicals firm where I worked.
2. To run the NY city marathon (I am a sprinter not a distance runner.)
Within four months I achieved them both. This was a turning point. My key insights were that I go as far as I imagine and I am my biggest enabler and barrier. You are either making history or you are being shaped by it.
What is your number 1 advice for career aspiring women?
Be in the driving seat, be bold in your thinking, be clear and ask for what you need and want – at work and at home. If anything were possible what would you love to do?