Women have a lot to celebrate in terms of what we have achieved. However, to maintain the momentum of progress, we must change the mindset that brought us to where we are today.

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When solely men ruled the boardroom, we came to terms that the glass slipper was, in fact, a glass ceiling. Although more women now have leadership roles, like in Yahoo! and PepsiCo, women still feel the pressure of the glass ceiling. We must realise that the ceiling has been shattered by women who have shown that it is possible. We must realize that we must change the mindset.

We have moved and should move on from that mindset because as we continue to use that as a reason for not reaching the top, it has become a glass box of comfort zone to excuse ourselves for not achieving something.

Instead of saying “I was passed over for promotion because I’m a woman and they felt a man was better suited”, let us ask ourselves: “what experience did I lack that I should work on to up my game?” If someone stole a woman’s credit at work, she should not keep quiet just because she is the “weaker sex” and it would be unladylike to speak up.

One would earn more respect fighting for oneself because one cannot possibly make a good leader if one cannot do so, much less for one’s team. It is sometimes what we do not do that disadvantages us. Glass is shattered easily, but we must overcome our personal barriers first.

Let us also not forget those who have put their careers on hold to manage the household and nurture the next generation. I have seen women who question stay-at-home mums’ decision to hang up their power suits. As women ourselves, we should not demean their decision. Their achievements are no less than battles won in boardrooms. Their selfless act is not a weakness, but a commendable leadership trait of putting their brood before themselves.

Let us not make them feel that they are missing out on opportunities by being away from the workforce because, vice versa, we will have our fair share of missing out on our children’s recital or sports day.

When they decide to rejoin the workforce, let us support and guide them because that would contribute to having more women who are successful at work.

Whether at home or at work, it is not about beating the men on the scorecards, but about doing our best and having the drive to make a difference, not as a woman, but as a person.

Change the mindset! For speaking, consultation or training opportunities, please contact Cheryl.