The Ripple Effect for Women Leaders

Have you ever thought about where you fit into the bigger picture? Or how you could be leading the way for other women without even realising it?

I recently finished up as a Mentee on the Inspired Women Lead’s peer-to-peer mentoring program. Those 6 months had a profound effect on me and it became clearer to me as I got closer to the end of my time as Mentee. In that time, I took on projects that were well out of my comfort zone. I chose to take on these projects so that I could help other women find their feet and succeed in leadership. It goes back to what I often say to my clients. When you’re growing as a person, the transition period can be really uncomfortable. There will be times when you feel like you’ve hit a brick wall and you want to run back to the safety of where you were before, even if it no longer serves you.

Being clear on your WHY in these moments is incredibly important. This is what will keep you moving forward. My WHY is to help other women leaders so that we can ultimately close the confidence gap. One woman leader can set off a chain reaction that helps another and another and so it goes on. I’m a big believer in the ripple effect. If we lead by example, then we inspire and help other women to do the same and pay it forward.

Can you imagine what kind of an impact that would have?

These were the types of discussions we had in the program. This is what it means to close the confidence gap. Sheryl Sandberg said it perfectly:

“Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence."

I am already doing my part to help women leaders thrive and succeed. I intend to add more ripples as I step into the shoes of Mentor for the next 6 months. Helping women help other women will create systemic change and we each have it within us to play a part in this. You are the example for women in leadership and your part is bigger than you realise.