BY: Gurdeep Gill
When I look back at my early days in cybersecurity, I remember sitting in meetings, quietly absorbing everything but rarely speaking up. My mind was full of questions, but fear kept me quiet. What if I was wrong? What if my question sounded silly? I thought staying silent was safer.
I still remember the turning point for me: the first time I decided to speak up in a meeting. I was nervous, my heart was racing but I knew I had something valuable to contribute. When I finally shared my thoughts, it wasn’t about having the perfect idea; it was about allowing myself to take up space and be heard. That moment made me realize that my voice did matter. Each time I found the courage to speak up after that, I felt myself growing more confident and capable.
Now, I know there’s no such thing as a wrong question. The only real mistake is not asking at all. Every time I held back, I missed a chance to learn, to grow, and to show what I could really do.
One quote from Marcus Aurelius that always sticks with me:
“You could be good today, but instead you choose tomorrow.”
It’s a powerful reminder to stop waiting for the perfect moment. In cybersecurity and in life, there’s no better time to start than right now.
Keep Growing
I’m still evolving, and so are you. No matter your title, your experience, or your age, there’s always room for more; more learning, more courage, more opportunity. Growth isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step, every stumble, and every win counts.
Even after a decade in cybersecurity, I still have days where I feel like I know nothing. Technology changes quickly, and it can be overwhelming to keep up. But the knowledge and experience we gain over the years from new tools, evolving threats, and unexpected challenges is priceless. Every lesson learned, every problem solved, and every obstacle overcome adds value that no one can take away from you.
Find Your Voice
One of the most powerful things you can do is speak up. Your ideas, your questions, your concerns; they all matter. No one else has your story, your perspective, or your insight. When you choose to stay silent, you might miss out on growth that’s waiting for you. The taste of that growth is very addictive, once you get a glimpse of what’s possible by speaking up, you’ll find yourself unstoppable.
Prioritize Your Well-Being
As a woman, you carry a lot of roles, and sometimes the constant juggling can weigh you down. That’s why it’s so important to set boundaries and prioritize your own well-being. Pursuing growth and excellence can be demanding but remember to take care of yourself along the way. Make time for rest, and don’t ignore your mental and physical health. Well-being is the foundation that allows you to show up fully and sustainably in your career.
Be Yourself
There’s only one you. Decide to be yourself, unapologetically. The world doesn’t need another copy; it needs your authentic voice, your talents, and your unique approach. Sometimes, that means standing out. Sometimes, that means walking away from spaces that don’t value you. If it doesn’t work here, it will work somewhere else. Some doors might close, but new ones will open where you are meant to belong.
Build a Strong Network
Your network is one of your greatest resources in cybersecurity. Connect with people who inspire you, who challenge you, and who support your growth. Build genuine relationships with mentors, peers, and allies both inside and outside your organization. A strong network opens doors, provides fresh perspectives, and reminds you that you’re not alone on this journey.
Support Other Women
One of the best parts of being a woman in cybersecurity is the community. Admire and encourage the women around you. Even a simple word of recognition or encouragement can make a big difference. Celebrate each other’s wins, lift each other up and help each other move forward. The cybersecurity field thrives on diverse voices and fresh perspective; your story and your solutions truly matter.
Keep Learning and Ask for Help
Growth means being willing to say, “I don’t know yet, but I want to learn.”. No one has all the answers or all the skills on their own. Seek out mentors, allies, and friends who will help you build new skills and cheer you on as you learn. It’s okay to not know everything right away; what matters is your willingness to try and to ask for support
Capture Opportunities and Learn from the Ones You Miss
We all miss opportunities sometimes. The key is to recognize those moments, learn from them, and be ready for the next one. Don’t let a missed opportunity turn into regret. Instead, use it as fuel to capture the next one that comes your way. The important thing is to put yourself out there, even when it feels risky. That’s where growth really happens.
Show Your Talent
Shame on the world for not seeing your talent, but shame on you for not showing it. Don’t shrink to fit into spaces that don’t appreciate you. Step into the spotlight. Show what you can do. Don’t be afraid to talk about your successes and the challenges you have overcome. Your achievements help pave the way for others.
Embrace Growth Over Comfort
It’s tempting to settle into a comfortable job or project and stay there. But real growth happens at the edge of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself. If you start to feel too comfortable, it’s time to look for new challenges. The right opportunities will push you out of your comfort zone and help you understand what you stand for, what you offer, and what makes you unique.
Your Journey Continues
So, as you move forward whether you’re facing new challenges, chasing fresh opportunities, or picking yourself up after a setback, remember this: you are capable of more than you know. Trust your voice. Show your strengths. Support the women beside you and let them support you in return. Keep stepping forward, even when it feels uncomfortable, because that’s where the real growth happens. The cybersecurity field needs your ideas, your leadership, and your authenticity. Shine brightly, take up space, and never let self-doubt dim the light only you can bring. Your journey isn’t finished; your best chapters are still being written. Go after them, boldly and unapologetically.