Women in Leadership and apprehensions about uncertainty
In this blog, we are going to explore the foundation of apprehensions women have in business world and focus will be on how to harness it, removing the barriers for women seeking to move into positions of leadership.
Apprehensions and Women in Leadership Roles
So where do your apprehensions crop up from? Is it from uncertainty in job market or current role or economic recession? We all feel apprehensive in challenging times or taking on new roles or tasks. It is about the uncertainty or being unfamiliar to the unpredictable.
Uncertainty and the unknown is where apprehensions creeps in the workplace and may be overwhelming when look it likes the following:
the fear of making the wrong decision
the fear of being judged
the fear of not being accepted as a leader or Manager
the fear of sacrificing something, such as family time
the fear of failure
In some ways, when we look back through history and the roles women have traditionally played, it's easy to see why women feel uncomfortable stepping into positions of leadership, risk-taking and the unknown. Until very recently, most women's roles extended only as far as the home and the family dynamic. Most decisions were made for women and their roles were limited, with little expectation placed on them from society. Young girls were taught to be quiet, obedient and restrained, whilst young boys were encouraged to be rambunctious, adventurous and outgoing..
We can all overcome apprehensions as a Leader
It's important to recognize that apprehensions are normal part of business life. And in leadership, it's a right of passage. It's simply not the case that some leaders are fearless; this is a myth. More accurately, a good leader is one that normalizes the feeling of being apprehensive, recognizes, and acknowledges it without attaching to it, allowing them to act and make decisions in spite of it. Experiencing fear without succumbing to it can set you apart and set you free to make decisions that are in your best interest, as well as the team or organization you represent.
"You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing you think you cannot do." ~ Eleanor Roosevelt
Countless studies continue to demonstrate a huge disparity between men and women in the corporate marketplace. Currently there are more Fortune 500 CEOs with the first name John than there are Fortune 500 women CEOs, according to a recent analysis by the New York Times. The good news however is that the gap is starting to close.
Several recent studies demonstrate the business benefits that arise from better gender balance in positions of leadership. A recent McKinsey study uncovered that companies with a large number of women in senior management can yield up to a 41% higher return on equity than average. Another recent Morgan Stanley study estimated that higher female participation and employment rates could lead to a GDP gain of about 6% by 2030.
"Change is Inevitable…Growth is Optional "
~ John C. Maxwell
If you are having second thoughts on the contribution you can make in the business world and society, here are some helpful pointers that can help you to navigate in uncertain times to get over your apprehensions:
Accept that uncertainty is normal: Acknowledge that things aren't always going to feel comfortable – and that when you feel fearful due to uncertainty, you have an opportunity to shine.
Get to know yourself better: By identifying and understanding your competencies, strengths and skillsets, you are reminding yourself of your knowledge and experience.
Identify your values: Spend time writing down your core values – these are the things you are most passionate about – then try to stay true to them. It is often easier to make decisions when you are acting from a place that is aligned with what you really believe in.
Be committed to learning: By being committed to learning and personal development, this opens you up to new perspectives and information that you can integrate into your leadership practice and will embolden you into trying new ideas and decision-making.
Seek feedback and mentorship: Be open to feedback – ask for pointers from your senior colleagues and peers. It may be helpful to engage a mentor or supportive group, who you can call upon for advice and additional perspectives.
Develop your network: Surround yourself with people who want to see you succeed and share same values. Develop business and personal connections with others in network of friends, business colleagues. If you are a woman, then may be join Women leadership groups at work or outside in community who support one another as they climb the corporate ladder.
Express yourself authentically: Be open and stand up for your truth with authenticity, there is no need to bottle up your vulnerabilities and empathy. Strong leaders are compassionate.
Lift others as you rise: As you climb higher in your position of leadership, remember those who helped you to normalize your apprehensions. Offer your helping and nurture those that are coming up behind you and support them on their journey. Women are mostly open to being guided and as you grow, spend few minutes every week or month to be kind and coach others who need your help.
In some cases, it may be beneficial to speak to a professional coach, as they can help to identify your skillsets and help re-program your career path for exploring options using BG5 System. BG5 Success codes are derived with clear business attributes and is a map based on Human Design System , an ancient system that mathematically and accurately depicts the mechanics of your genetic information. The BG5™ system focuses on your career direction, business interactions, interpersonal skills and leadership. As your coach shares your profile and unique success code, you will see that you have gifts and a unique purpose to share with the world. Once you see your own shining light, it may help to identify your goals.
If reading this article has resonated with you in any way, we encourage you to connect with us for a chat. We would love to help you on your journey and explore the possibilities in your life that are waiting to be unlocked!
Shining Compass offers experienced coaching for individuals, solo entrepreneurs, family business owners and community groups seeking to develop business strategy, overcome challenges or cultivate a more fulfilling and authentic vocation.
To get started with Shining Compass Business Coaching, follow the simple steps below:
Book a free 15-minute discovery call with Shining Compass. We offer global online coaching, so location is no problem – just find a time that works for you!
During our discovery call, we will get to know each other to see if we are a good fit
If we match, select your preferred coaching option and schedule a time with your Shining Compass coach
Payments are accepted via credit card directly at time of booking
