For greater than 20 years, I poured every little thing into my profession as a public relations govt. I helped a whole bunch of purchasers throughout industries — from tech to retail, healthcare to hospitality. However one dream stayed on the again burner: writing a ebook of my very own. 
That modified after I joined Cisco.
Instantly, I knew I used to be in a spot that supported me — professionally and personally. Surrounded by pushed, artistic friends, I lastly felt at residence. And for the primary time, I may see a path to constructing the life I imagined — at work and past.
Over six years at Cisco, I’ve grown as a frontrunner, instructor, and storyteller. I’ve led communications for Cisco DevNet, Meraki, Cloud Networking, and extra. And due to the belief and suppleness Cisco offers me, I’ve additionally had house to be a mother, a spouse, a cat lover — and now, an writer.
From Notes on the Desk to a E book on the Shelf
Changing into a mom opened my coronary heart in new methods. It helped me see the richness of our multicultural household — and the tales nonetheless ready to be informed. I started jotting down concepts on the kitchen desk, between conferences and bedtime routines.
These notes grew to become My title is Checkers — a narrative about an unconventional household and a tribute to my Mexican-American heritage, offered in each English and Spanish. In it, three characters join and assist one another — regardless of their completely different colours, personalities, and even species. This ebook is just the start of a deliberate collection impressed by my very own journey: discovering love and happiness by being myself — one thing that working right here at Cisco helped me uncover and absolutely embrace.
The Group That Made It Doable
Belonging is a observe, not a poster. At Cisco, I discovered momentum and mentorship by way of teams like Ladies of Cisco, Subsequent Era Leaders, and Conexión Latinx Community. I’m always inspired by the tales I see shared and the communities I observe and contribute to. By no means in any time of my skilled profession have I been surrounded by a lot positivity. It wasn’t nearly connecting; it was about discovering others who understood the juggle, who cheered me on, and who jogged my memory, throughout fast check-ins on Webex or lunchtime webinars: I’m not alone.
That assist system helped me stability parenting, caregiving, {and professional} development. It gave me instruments to remain targeted, ask for assist, and hold going. Whether or not I’m main a product launch or becoming a member of a PTA occasion, I will be absolutely current. That stability brings readability to all components of my life.
What Helped Me Make It Actual
You is perhaps a mother or father, a caregiver, or a latest grad. Most of us need the identical factor: significant work and a full life. Right here’s what helped me:
- Share your objectives together with your supervisor. Flexibility begins with communication.
- Construct a gradual rhythm. Small steps add up.
- Use the instruments you may have. A easy to-do checklist works wonders.
- Discover your individuals. Peer teams flip ambition into motion.
- Shield pleasure. A stroll, a chapter, fun — these are the resets that gasoline the work.
Why This Issues
We transfer sooner once we’re clear on outcomes and beneficiant with belief. It’s how we keep current for the individuals we love. I’m pleased with the worth I present to Cisco companions and builders as an ecosystem and builders advertising and marketing networking supervisor. I’m simply as proud that I can shut my laptop computer, be absolutely current with my husband and son, and return with recent power. That stability isn’t only a perk — it’s the purpose. Cisco’s versatile work schedule and supportive tradition make me really feel so assured that I can actually do all of it.
My journey to creating My title is Checkers a actuality is greater than a private milestone — it’s proof that if you’re a part of a corporation that values your complete self, you’ll be able to obtain your goals and create one thing significant. One thing that helps others really feel seen, linked, and liked.
That is what it seems wish to #LoveWhereYouWork.
Do you wish to uncover the most effective model of your self? Discover Cisco alternatives now.
