Asa women in business, I was excited when Sheryl Sandberg’s book, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead, first came out – I not only thought it was my duty to read it, but was expecting it to be the answer to all my problems: how to thrive in business as a women, without neglecting things like family and children… Needless to say, it was not exactly what I was expecting.
Now, don’t get me wrong – she has a compelling point of view and it was an entertaining read, it’s just that I don’t one-hundred percent agree with everything she believes.
For instance, she starts out saying things like: “We each have to chart our own unique course and define which goals fit our lives, values, and dreams,” and “Owning ones success is key to achieving more success.” This, I relate to completely!
Additionally, Sandberg backs up her opinions with irrefutable facts: women get paid less (77 cents for every dollar earned by men in 2010), and they are considered "bitches" when they are aggressive, whereas men are considered go-getters when they illustrate the same trait.
There is no doubt that women face all the challenges in today’s professional world, but what I don't agree with her solution.
In fact, I disagree with the overall idea of “leaning in.” To me, leaning in implies that you don’t feel you deserve to be there and you’re slowly, inching in, trying not to get noticed… I imagine a soft spoken, shy, individual leaning in to eavesdrop on someone else’s conversation waiting to be invited into the conversation.
Instead of leaning in, I think women (and all driven professionals really) should be encouraged to step forward. Stepping forward implies an assertiveness and confidence that I feel is lacking from lean in. When you step forward you’re taking initiative, “making moves,” as my husband often tells me, and getting noticed.
So, my advice to you – yes, this advice applies to anyone and everyone, not just women – don’t wait to get noticed, step forward and take initiative to insert yourself into a new situation. You might not get it right the first time, but you’ll definitely get points for trying and showing you care.
