Christine Contreras

I attribute my success to maintaining consistent forward momentum and deliberately taking proactive steps toward my goals. By approaching each day with intention and a clear sense of direction, I ensure that progress—no matter how incremental—becomes a cumulative force that propels me forward. Research shows that momentum isn’t just a motivational buzzword; it functions as a psychological and performance enhancer that increases confidence, perceived competence, and goal achievement over time.

Rather than waiting for favorable circumstances, I take ownership of my trajectory by setting clear objectives, developing actionable plans, and regularly assessing my progress. This approach reflects a proactive mindset that anticipates challenges, embraces learning opportunities, and adapts to changes rather than reacting to them. Proactive behaviors are strongly linked to enhanced task performance, expanded opportunities, and greater career success.

I remain committed to embracing growth opportunities as they arise, recognizing that challenges often reveal the most valuable lessons and insights. Adopting a growth-oriented mindset—where obstacles are reframed as chances to improve—encourages continuous learning and resilience. This allows me not only to accumulate knowledge and skills but also to refine my strategies and expand my impact over time.

Ultimately, my success is grounded in a disciplined commitment to continuous personal and professional evolution. I actively seek feedback, pursue new experiences, and remain open to constructive change, all of which help ensure sustained progress and a standard of excellence in everything I undertake.

The most impactful career advice I’ve ever received came from my father: begin each day early, honor your commitments by being punctual, and consistently put forth effort that exceeds expectations. This guidance has shaped my work ethic by teaching me the value of discipline, respect for others’ time, and the importance of dedicating myself fully to every task. By rising ahead of the day’s demands, showing up reliably, and applying a strong, proactive work ethic, I’ve built a foundation for sustained professional growth and meaningful achievement. 

If I could offer guidance to young women entering my industry, it would be grounded in both experience and best practices that have helped women professionals succeed across sectors. First and foremost, work ethic and a can-do attitude are fundamental — showing up with determination, resilience, and a willingness to learn will set you apart and empower you to embrace each challenge as an opportunity to grow and excel. As you begin your career, cultivate a growth mindset by viewing obstacles not as setbacks but as learning experiences that strengthen your skills and confidence. Actively seek out opportunities to upskill, ask thoughtful questions, and remain curious about all aspects of your work — this mindset not only enhances your competence but also signals initiative to colleagues and leaders. Building strong professional relationships and networks is equally important. Connect with peers, mentors, and industry leaders who can offer guidance, open doors to opportunities, and serve as advocates as you advance. These relationships provide support when navigating complex situations and help you stay informed about trends and opportunities within the field. Don’t underestimate the power of self-advocacy: know your worth, communicate your goals clearly, and be prepared to negotiate for the recognition, responsibilities, and compensation you deserve. Women who actively advocate for themselves tend to accelerate their career progression and secure opportunities that align with their ambitions. Finally, always maintain professionalism, integrity, and a positive attitude even in the face of adversity. Your reputation — for reliability, thoughtful problem-solving, and collaborative leadership — will follow you throughout your career and help you build credibility and long-term success in the industry.

The values that matter most to me, both in my professional endeavors and in my personal life, are faith and hard work. Faith provides me with a guiding framework — a source of strength, resilience, and purpose that informs how I approach challenges, make decisions, and relate to others. It serves as an anchor during difficult moments, allowing me to remain grounded and focused on what truly matters, while motivating me to act with integrity, compassion, and humility.

Equally, I deeply value hard work. To me, diligence and persistence are far more than habits — they are principles that drive meaningful accomplishment and personal growth. Embracing a strong work ethic means consistently giving my best effort, striving for excellence, and viewing challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities to sharpen my skills and deepen my commitment. This mindset of sustained effort reflects the belief that dedication and perseverance are essential components of success in any pursuit.

Together, faith and hard work shape who I am and how I conduct myself. Faith gives me the confidence to pursue lofty goals with hope and conviction, while hard work ensures that I approach those goals with discipline, accountability, and humility. These values influence not only what I aim to achieve but also how I achieve it — with patience, respect for others, and a genuine commitment to making a positive impact in every context I engage in.