Winter positivity: who inspires you?

It’s 2020 and we wanted to start the year on a positive note, looking at the people who have inspired or helped us in our careers, even if indirectly, and we thought we’d start with the workingmums.co.uk team. This week it’s the turn of key account manager Mariam Curzon.

Who has inspired you in your life – both in work and outside?

Mariam Curzon: My mum always inspires me with her spiritual wisdom and always knows when I need to hear positive affirmations. Her strength of character is awe-inspiring and I am reminded of it especially when she talks about her life experiences which started during the war on mainland Europe when she had to escape from various life-threatening situations and goes right through to more mundane experiences such as dealing with a toddler at the height of a tantrum.

Have you had a mentor[s] or someone who has helped you in your career?

MC: I have been very fortunate to have met some wise people in my life so far. My dear friend Sue, who is sadly no longer with us, was a woman who had a fascinating life and was always inspiring. She always had time for me and always said the right thing about my career and life, even when I didn’t want to hear it.

If so, how has that person helped you?

MC: She challenged my naivety when I was younger, something which was much needed in hindsight, but she also made me understand my own self-worth through her advice and encouragement and that stays with me even now.

Has your career taken the path you thought when you started?

MC: I never had a clear idea of what I wanted to achieve specifically, but I always hope that things will progress. Looking back on my career there are peaks and troughs throughout, but I’m proud of what I’ve experienced and the skills I have learnt along the way.

What are you most proud of in your working life?

MC: Making a positive difference to others, be that as a manager or teacher in my previous roles or now when I have conversations with clients about championing flexibility and well being in the workplace. I am so proud of any role I have had that improves people’s lives in some way.

Do you think what you are looking for in your work has changed at different stages of your working life?

MC: Our ideas about what we want changes at different stages of our life cycle so ìn my 20’s I was searching for an exciting and sociable work life. Having children changes your perspective and your needs, for instance, my need for greater flexibility and a family friendly environment where I do not fear being judged negatively if I need to start work late because I need to take my sick child to the doctor’s. Some things will never change, though: I will always look for career progression and support in a workplace.

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