It’s been nearly five decades the Women’s Movement of the 1960s that brought more women into the American workforce. According to a study by Citi and LinkedIn, 96 percent of women believe that having it all is now attainable – but how?
Take a look at these lessons from some of the country’s most successful women that may help you find your way to the top, too.
Take Risks
With great risks often come great rewards. Sheryl Sandberg, COO of social media giant Facebook and author of the motivational book “Lean In” advocates being bold in the line of work. If you’re not happy with your company or your position, try to initiate change by speaking up. If that doesn’t work then be prepared to look for progress outside of your organization or create opportunities by starting your own company. You will never know what you are capable of accomplishing if you don’t try, so seize the day.
Be Passionate
One of many attributes shared by successful people is the passion they have about everything they do. They live, breathe and enjoy their careers so much that getting paid for the job is secondary. Human rights international attorney Amal Clooney can attest to this. Her passion for human rights is what motivates her to fight for the world’s most vulnerable people. Clooney makes no apologies for being emotional about her cases because that is what fuels her drive. Though some days may be a little harder because of the nature of her cases, Clooney’s passion is what makes it worth it. Like Clooney, find something that sparks your inner fire and that you look forward to doing every day. After all, the most passionate people love what they do and that love yields success.
Use the Stereotype Tax
Depending on what industry you’re in, you may find yourself in the gender minority. This is not a problem unless your peers make it one. Have faith in your work and skills to combat the false labels people have attached to you. Be prepared though, this faith isn’t always enough. 888Poker.com’s Annie Duke, who has a total of $2.3 million in winnings, knows this firsthand. Duke leverages her success to champion numerous global causes and wins poker games with the use of the stereotype tax — when you use a negative stereotype to your advantage. Duke logically divides her opponents into categories such as flirting, disrespecting, and angry chauvinists. As she plays poker, she adjusts her strategy for each player accordingly until she finds herself at the winner’s circle. You can do the same by not letting the preconceived notions other have about you get your down. Instead, use their ignorance and your self-worth to propel your goals at work.
Take a step back and celebrate the strides working women have made these past 50 years. Today, women make up over 58 percent of the U.S. labor force and are on their way to earning equal wages. Take these lessons on success to heart — there’s a great chance your journey will be a prosperous one too.
