Karen Sommers is principal and cofounder of City Wide Facilities Solutions, which provides managed facility services to more than 600 commercial clients in Central and Eastern Massachusetts. Along with her husband, she built the company from the ground up.
Here’s how she does it.
Leadership Lessons
It’s OK to Say No
For a long time, I believed that saying “no” meant I wasn’t being a supportive leader, friend, or family member. That mindset led me to pour time and energy into commitments that didn’t always align with my values or priorities, simply because I felt obligated to say yes.
Over time, I’ve learned that declining certain opportunities doesn’t make me less caring; it makes me stronger and more intentional. Saying no creates the space to focus on what truly matters. It’s still a work in progress, and not always easy, but it has been one of the most valuable lessons in my personal and professional growth.
Stay Curious
Learning is never finished. The best leaders stay curious, continuously growing themselves while investing in their team’s growth. When you prioritize development—both your own and your team’s—everyone benefits, and your leadership becomes stronger and more effective.
Career Advice
Think Big
Almost 40 years ago, a competitor at another radio station challenged me with two simple words: “Think Big”. I started writing that phrase on my desk blotter every month, and I keep it on a card in my office today. It’s a daily reminder to look beyond the immediate moment, raise my sights, and imagine what could be next, not just what is now.
Energy Booster
Don’t Think and Worry, Plan and Execute
I put this into practice by blocking time in my calendar, not only for focused work but also for white space. Those intentional pauses give me room to think, create, and recharge, which makes the execution even stronger.
Focus on What You Can Control
I discovered The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins during a challenging time. “Just let them” is now my quick reset for stressful moments. This simple mantra helps me focus on what I can control and frees up energy for what matters most.
