Throughout my career, I’ve hit more than one plateau. Each time, the way forward wasn’t by waiting for change—it was by creating it. I learned to be intentionally disruptive, stepping beyond the boundaries of my job description, the title I held, and the opportunities typically offered—especially as the only woman in the room asking for that kind of stretch.
Early in my journey, I moved quickly through the HR function, mastering one discipline after another until I felt confident leading teams across the board. It was exciting, fulfilling, and fun—but I still craved more.
So I began asking for what would challenge me: stretch assignments, board exposure, and cross-functional projects that pushed me beyond HR and into the business as a whole.
One of my biggest breakthroughs came at the C-suite level. Feeling restless, I volunteered to step into an acting COO role—without the formal title. That move unlocked new perspectives, from cross-department collaboration to company-wide problem-solving, and allowed me to serve in a deeper, more holistic way.
Eventually, I hit the plateau that no promotion or project could solve. That’s when I fully embraced my personal motto: get comfortable with being uncomfortable. I launched my own company, stepping into the unknown as a solopreneur.
Today, my impact is self-directed. I choose the work I take on, the partnerships I nurture, and the difference I want to make. My passion is renewed, my purpose is clear, and my story is still unfolding.
—Becky Kowall, founder and chief HR strategist, 22 North HR