Mistakes I Made at Work

Mistakes I Made At Work (2014) gathers candid stories from women who turned career stumbles into stepping stones. You’ll hear firsthand how setbacks – from miscalculations in high-pressure roles to moments of self-doubt – became pivotal lessons in leadership and growth. It explores how missteps become tools for building resilience, reshaping priorities, and forging paths that honor ambition without sacrificing authenticity.

• Women reconsidering traditional definitions of career success
• Professionals navigating male-dominated industries or workplaces
• Individuals seeking the courage to prioritize authenticity over external validation

Jessica Bacal is the director of Reflective and Integrative Practices and the Narratives Project at Smith College, where she develops programs to help students navigate identity, resilience, and community. She teaches a course on life design called “Designing Your Path,” and previously worked as an elementary school teacher and curriculum developer in New York City.