What does it take to step away from a career that has defined you for nearly three decades? On the episode of “Endings” available 29 February, I am delighted to introduce you to Karen Campbell Williams, who made exactly that decision with both courage and grace. Karen’s journey is not just about retirement; it’s about redefining success and identity to navigate life’s inevitable transitions.
Karen was the first female tax partner at Grant Thornton and has had an impressive career which saw her achieve a board position. But beyond the accolades and achievements, she is a person deeply rooted in family and community. Her Sundays are filled with the laughter and chatter of a bustling household, a scene that has become as much a part of her identity as her professional title.
Throughout the episode, Karen’s warmth and wisdom shine through as she discusses the concept of ‘enoughness.’ It’s a term that captures the essence of her decision-making process – recognizing when she has accumulated enough experiences, enough success, and enough financial security to step into a different phase of life without regrets.
As Karen shares her story, you might find yourself reflecting on your own life and careers. Are you too focused on the next achievement, the next rung on the ladder, or are you able to pause and assess what you truly value? Karen’s experience reminds us that sometimes, the bravest thing we can do is to stop striving for more and start appreciating what we already have. You may want to hear Karen’s story and access a useful worksheet if you are facing your own career crossroads. It’s a great way to spend 30 minutes to invest in creating a different future for yourself.
You can find Endings wherever you get your podcasts from or https://podfollow.com/1675482321 and follow the podcast to get other episodes as soon as they are released. You can find the companion worksheet for Karen’s episode on our website, just below this blog.
