"The 30-Day Assertiveness Challenge gave me practical techniques to identify and overcome the subtle behaviours that were holding me back — despite being an experienced professional with decades in the industry."

An experienced professional facing an invisible barrier

After more than 20 years in the photonics industry, I had established myself as an experienced professional. I had deep technical knowledge and significant responsibilities. But despite my experience, something was holding me back.

"I felt like I was coming to a crossroad," I remember thinking. "I've been around for a while and have significant experience under my belt. So what was stopping me from preparing myself to break through that ceiling and push higher?"

My challenges weren't about knowledge or dedication — they were more subtle:

• Fear of public speaking was preventing me from fully sharing my expertise
• Uncertainty in meetings meant my ideas weren't always heard
• As an expat with English as my second language, I sometimes struggled to assert myself
• Subtle behaviours I wasn't even aware of were undermining my authority

I needed to decide: should I continue in my current role with better tools, or could I realistically see myself stepping into higher management? I knew something needed to change, but I wasn't sure what was missing.

Discovering the invisible patterns holding me back

When I first learnt about the 30-Day Assertiveness Challenge, I was intrigued by its focus on small, daily changes specifically designed for women in STEM. The programme promised to reveal those "blind spots" that experienced professionals often miss.

Christina's approach was refreshingly practical. Instead of generic advice, the challenge provided specific, actionable techniques I could implement immediately — even with my busy schedule.

"What surprised me most were the very specific areas that you don't even realise you're doing that are really holding you back," I recall. The programme helped me recognise subtle patterns in my communication style that were undermining my authority — despite my extensive experience and expertise.

The community aspect was equally valuable. Connecting with other professionals facing similar challenges helped me realise I wasn't alone. Having a support system of women who understood the unique dynamics of technical environments made a tremendous difference.

Transforming my communication and confidence

The 30-Day Challenge was structured to build my skills progressively. Each week focused on a different aspect of assertive communication:

During the Confident Mind Blueprint week, I identified self-doubts that had been quietly undermining my confidence for years. I learned to recognise when my "impostor" was appearing and techniques to weaken its grip.

The Powerful Voice Framework revealed how I had been unconsciously softening my language and minimising my contributions. I discovered that simple changes in how I phrased my ideas could dramatically change how they were received.

The Speak Up System gave me practical frameworks for handling challenging workplace situations. I remember applying these techniques to a real-life scenario:

"I set up the situation with ChatGPT as it was happening in my real life and used the framework to guide my response. It was a huge win — I actually got my point across and won my argument! Otherwise, I would probably have just accepted whatever the person wanted me to do."

The Leadership Presence Playbook helped me understand how subtle shifts in body language and presentation could enhance my authority. As an expat with English as my second language, these non-verbal cues became powerful tools in my communication arsenal.

Building my foundation for future growth

The 30-Day Challenge equipped me with practical tools that I can apply continuously throughout my career. Rather than a quick fix, these techniques have given me a foundation to build upon as I work toward breaking through career barriers.

Now I approach communication more strategically, with specific frameworks to handle difficult conversations and ensure my voice is heard. What I appreciate most is that the programme didn't try to change who I am, but instead enhanced my natural abilities and helped me minimise self-sabotaging behaviours.

"I think it's continuous work on yourself with the tools Christina provided," I reflect. "She's amazing and down to earth. She builds a community where sharing with each other makes you realise you're not alone in this."

For someone who has spent two decades in a technical field, finding new ways to grow can be challenging. This programme offered exactly what I needed: specific, practical tools to identify and address the subtle barriers that were holding me back.

From experienced professional to confident communicator

Before the 30-Day Assertiveness Challenge, I had the experience and knowledge but lacked the assertiveness to fully leverage them. Now, I have the tools to communicate with clarity and confidence, even as an expat in a technical field.

The programme didn't just teach me theoretical concepts — it gave me practical techniques I could implement immediately. And that has made all the difference in how I approach my professional journey.

"Christina's 30-Day Assertiveness Challenge gave me exactly what I needed after 20 years in the industry — practical tools to identify the subtle behaviours holding me back and the confidence to overcome them. As an expat in a technical field, I now have the foundation to express my ideas with conviction and work toward breaking through career barriers."