In the United States, women make up 34% of the STEM workforce. Female participants account for 40% of sports teams. Adding on to that, we know dozens of notable women, people from Helen Keller, Anne Frank, Temple Grandin, Kamala Harris, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez to Taylor Swift. Women have contributed to major medical breakthroughs, powerful negotiations about climate change, and other factors behind systemic change.
But we, as women, still feel we need to prove ourselves because of how we’re treated. We’ve had countless times where others dismiss or ignore our contributions and worth, far more often than people have truly “seen” us.
While the adversities behind gender inequality are shocking and sad, we, as women, can do small things to stand in our power, asserting ourselves without feeling we need to double work. Here’s how:
1. Build your confidence.
If you have a dream or passion, own it. As silly as it sounds, practice asserting yourself in front of the mirror. Hold your head high (literally and figuratively), put your shoulders back, and speak loudly and boldly. Practicing a home will make doing it in front of others much easier.
2. Confide in your circle.
Your friends and support system will proudly accept your aspirations. Share your ideas with them first and ask for honest feedback. Talking it out in a safe space will ease any uncertainty you may have.
3. Look good, feel good.
Have a lucky shirt? Always feel more confident when you have your hair done a particular way? Owning your look can help you own your moment better. Taking the time to prepare and prep both physically and mentally will allow you to go into the world with a more confident stance.
4. Build your network.
Putting yourself around like-minded individuals benefits your growth. If you have something you’re passionate about, find someone who has done something similar to see your full potential. Ask them questions about the good, even the bad and the ugly truths. More often than not, other women will want to see you succeed and be happy to answer any questions you may have.
5. Try, try again.
Understand that there is tremendous growth in continually assessing and pivoting to find a more successful path toward your goals. Take the time to stop and evaluate how things are going and if you feel you’re headed in the right direction. Make any necessary changes. You’ll feel more secure when you’ve accomplished what you were trying to.
How do you build your confidence as a woman? And how do you build up other women around you? Let us know in the comments below, and remember: work it, girl!
