Why aren’t more women leaders?

A good article in Psychology Today by Dr. Mira Brancu delves beneath the “Imposter Syndrome” which many women express when asked how they feel in leadership positions.

It’s not just lack of confidence, but subtle cultural encouragement against a woman who shows any ambition. They don’t like to be seen as self promoting or selfish. Over time they learn to focus on behaviours that are informed by societal norms, such as teamwork and supporting others.

So what often happens? While struggling to make it to the top in our dog eat dog hustle culture, sometimes women swallow their feminine traits and soon become more aggressive than men. They become witches.

So I say to all women leaders—remember that all women are sisters. Have patience with those women who don’t understand what a privileged club this is. And open up your arms and embrace men, too. Because this is how you become the leader you were always meant to be.