The Potential and Reality of Women as Successful Leaders and Managers

Over the past two decades, I have occupied various leadership roles in the military and commerce. Additionally, I have acted as a life coach for the past two decades. During this time, I have had the privilege of working with numerous women, and approximately 50 of my coaching clients have been women. Based on my extensive experience, the answer to the question of whether women can be successful leaders and managers is unequivocally 'Yes.'

Women possess the potential to become better leaders than many men, provided they remain authentic, courageous, and caring. These qualities are essential in fostering a nurturing and effective leadership environment. With our population being approximately 50% male and 50% female, it is crucial to have a more representative presence of women in leadership roles. We, as men, should ensure we are equitably supporting women in these positions.

It is essential for both men and women seeking leadership roles to have the right motivations. Leaders should aspire to achieve and realize their vision by empowering and aiding their team members to succeed. However, if someone seeks a leadership position solely for status, power, perks, or privileged reasons, regardless of gender, they are not the right candidates for those roles.

Challenging the Stereotypes

Asking questions about the difference between men and women reinforces the perception that a disparity exists. When these questions are continually posed, it creates a self-perpetuating cycle that endows the issue with more power. For instance, Barack Obama’s focus on racial differences hindered his potential. Similarly, questioning the gender balance in leadership positions also leads to perpetuating the idea of a difference.

The discourse surrounding what women and men can achieve often stems from shallow assumptions. The myth that women had no power in ancient times has endured despite evidence to the contrary. Without the burden of proving their worth by doing everything men do to be considered equal, women might have remained as powerful as they were. This is a form of manipulation that has been perpetuated silently within societies.

Gender Stereotypes in Modern Times

In today's world, families need two incomes, yet this productivity often benefits those who created the notion that different capabilities mean inequality. In reality, a woman's ability to bear children might have always been a powerful attribute. Unfortunately, modern discussions and policies continue to distort this reality.

A pertinent example would be the push for women to hold every leadership position. While this initiative aims to balance gender disparities, it can instead highlight the perceived inadequacies of men. Such practices can create a self-fulfilling prophecy, where women are seen as more capable solely because they are women. This can lead to a reevaluation of men's worth, creating an uncomfortable and unfounded debate.

Embracing Differences

The United States struggles more than most with gender differences due to its efforts to address them instead of embracing them. Every action taken to 'fix' the differences reinforces their existence. By focusing on differences and attempting to resolve them, we continuously perpetuate the issue. This is evident in situations where companies like Walmart publicly announce their intention to place women in every leadership position, which can make men feel undermined.

It is crucial to consider the historical context. If land and resources were distributed according to family lineage, would it be fair for women to demand compensation from men? Just as recognizing ancestral entitlement can be challenging, acknowledging and addressing gender inequality presents similar difficulties.

The act of perpetuating the question about differences enables a perspective that women are perceived as disadvantaged. This perceived disadvantage fosters a sense of being held back or discriminated against, which in turn allows individuals to make excuses for their lack of personal responsibility. This cycle is self-perpetuating and challenging to break, breeds resentment, and makes it easier for others to exploit the situation for their benefit.

In conclusion, the potential for women to be successful leaders and managers is undeniable when their authentic and caring nature is harnessed. Society must move beyond the notion of a gender disparity in leadership roles and instead embrace the unique qualities women can bring to the table. By doing so, we not only enhance our organizations but also foster a more equitable and just society.