Have you ever had one of those career moments where you felt like you’d made it? A moment of proof that you’d finally earned a spot at the cool or important table?

I remember mine vividly.

I was invited to a leadership awards event to accept an honor alongside many strong businesswomen I admired and respected. Of course, I was a bit nervous about entering a room with so many powerhouses. But it was like a day-before-Christmas type of anxiety. The thought of getting to know people who inspire me electrified me.

I perseverated over my outfit for days in advance. I finally settled on a modern red skirt, colorful blouse, and black blazer, hoping they would make me stand out without drawing too much attention. Here I go.

With a big smile and bright eyes, I approached a group and introduced myself. The trio gave me an icy welcome, turning their feet away from me. I was a little disappointed to realize they weren’t accepting “newbies” into their group. But I shrugged it off. "A warmup!" I told myself.

That is, until it happened again and again. One cold shoulder after another. I’ll never forget when one pair I tried to speak to said, kind of miffed, “Would you mind if we go back to talking to each other?”

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