Women in Leadership: Inspiring Others and Changing the World
There is no question that women are powerful and can be great leaders. However, many times women don’t take on leadership roles because they feel they aren’t qualified or they don’t feel confident in their abilities. What we need to remember is that when women step up and take on leadership positions, they inspire others to do the same.
Women who lead show other women that it is possible to achieve anything they want, regardless of their gender. Leadership means different things to different people, but one thing is for sure – when women take on leadership roles, the whole world benefits!
This month we’re going to be talking all about how we as women can inspire others, our communities and even ourselves when we step up our leadership game – whether it’s in our business, our community, or even in politics – the wisdom, insight and skills we bring to the table make us uniquely qualified for positions of leadership. Over the next few weeks we’ll explore what it means to be a woman in a position of authority and how to use our voice and platform to make a difference as leaders.
First, we wanted to start this conversation with some insights from our community! We asked the members of the LBI Backstage Pass and other women in business we know what leadership is to them. Here’s what they had to say
As a entrepreneur or business owner, leadership is…
“…when we show up as our authentic self, go against the grain with unwavering fortitude and hold true to our values no matter the cost that we inspire. To lead without conviction is futile. To lead through the lens of passion and love changes the world!”
– Kerry Lewis
Authenticity and understanding our own values on a deep level are essential for leadership. When we can hold true to these values and live them out in our lives, we inspire others to do the same.
“…showing up every day and inspiring those around you to do the same.”
– Jacqy Stewart
Consistency is a key element when it comes to leadership. The ability to inspire others, from the top down, to show up, even when there are challenges or obstacles is definitely one of the hallmarks of a strong leader.
“… about being vulnerable. Leadership is about providing a safe place that nurtures a sense of belonging and where folks feel seen, heard, and respected.”
– Shanti Volpe
We couldn’t agree with this more! One of the core ways we lead the community inside the LBI Backstage Pass is by fostering a place of safe belonging, where women from all walks of life can be their most authentic selves and find support and inspiration. This is only possible when we lead from a place of openness, active listening, empathy and kindness.
“…the ability to make others feel important (or empowered).”
– Elizabeth Henson
We love this definition because it’s absolutely true! One of the things we believe makes up great leadership, especially in a community like ours is active listening. When you actively listen to someone, you not only show them that you care about what they have to say, but you also gain valuable insights into their thoughts and feelings. This makes others feel like they matter and empowers them to do the same for others.
“… the ability to inspire others towards a common goal while simultaneously growing, developing, and empowering yourself. Leaders are always learning, pushing their own limits and upping their game, while they empower others to do the same.”
– Jennifer Jayne
The greatest leaders lead themselves first! This is so important, because if we’re not actively growing and developing ourselves, then how can we be truly effective leaders? Leaders who are constantly learning and pushing themselves to grow inspire others to do the same.
Women in leadership roles have the ability to inspire other women and girls to take on positions of authority and leadership. What does this mean for our community? When more women step into leadership positions, we can create a ripple effect that inspires others to do the same. We need more female leaders in business, politics, science, and every other field so that future generations can see what is possible when they grow up.
We’ve loved sharing these insights on leadership that inspires from our community. Now it’s your turn! What does leadership mean to you as a woman in business? Let us know in the comments below!
