Maybe you've never negotiated for yourself before in your career. You've seen how things work behind the scenes, so your gut says that whatever you ask for, they'll object to it anyway. Why bother risking "no," when you've already got your plate full?

Sometimes when I coach my clients through their own objections like the above, I'm surprised by their ingenuity, resourcefulness, and outcomes.

Let me tell you about one of my clients, Nadine.

If you're technically excellent, hold yourself to a high standard, and feel a low hum of guilt about wanting more (because a bigger career might disappoint the people you're currently keeping happy) this one's for you.

You did something miraculous and wondrous with your body.

You created a new life, a new consciousness. You went on maternity leave, which is your right.

If you’re coming back and realizing you’ll have more work on your plate, this is what it means…