What Happens if Advocacy Doesn’t Work for Me?

There are times you may advocate for something you need to your supervisor or a counselor, and you may not receive the desired result. Sometimes, self-advocacy looks like showing up for yourself by doing the extra work or research to get the results you desire.

Remember that advocating for yourself is useful and empowering. This can feel disappointing when you don’t receive what you need, but you can always seek out support from human resources, an ally, a mentor, or someone who has a similar leadership or support role in your workplace or your school. ​

Be proud of yourself for advocating, and then find an alternative solution. One of those solutions is professional development.

Professional Development

Professional development is an opportunity to further yourself. You can develop better awareness, knowledge, or tangible skills through professional development opportunities.

Professional development is a great way to take matters into your own hands and continue your growth in the workplace, in school, and in your professional life.

What Leads Someone to Professionally Develop?

Deciding to do professional development is realizing that it’s time for change.

Some reasons to professionally develop:

• You want more responsibility
• You want to connect to your values or get closer to your goals
• You have certain skills to develop
• You realize that it’s time to take a risk on yourself