Get Out of Your Comfort Zone
I remember my teacher asking when I was nine, “What kind of profession do you want to take after school?” My answer was, “I want to be a boss.” He was more than astonished, and added, “Who will do the household?” To which I replied, “I will share this with my husband.”
It did not occur to me that this conversation could cause any problems, but the teacher contacted my parents to inform them that this behavior “does not behoove a girl.” My dad spoke to me faithfully, and he said, “My little daughter, you’re on the right way.”
In my perspective, leadership means inspiring, delegating, collaborating, communicating, influencing, respecting, and having the ability to constantly learn, change and develop yourself. I know personally only a few women that possess these attributes. Generally we are softer, more sensitive and emotional, and tend to have a helping attitude. We choose to stay in the background, out of the limelight, so as not to attract attention but rather, to observe.
There are many challenges for women around leadership topics. Some of the challenges come from other people, cultures, and the private and the working environment. What I have learned is that one of the biggest obstacles derives from the women themselves. It is their uneasiness about simply being confident. Confident women, who are clear on their purpose and what they are trying to achieve, will be successful. Get out of your comfort zone, learn who you are as a person and express that. Keep a positive attitude and explore yourself and all avenues out there.
