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Brain Circuits

Why women don’t need empowerment

Published February 5, 2025 in Brain Circuits • 3 min read

When we’re stuck in the empowerment mindset, we’re waiting for someone to hand us the reins. Here are three reasons why women don’t need empowering and three ways to lose the empowerment mindset.

Three reasons why empowerment is unnecessary…

 

1. If women are ‘empowered’, it implies they need permission from someone else

We don’t refer to ‘empowered men’ because it’s assumed they already have power. This double standard can make women feel they need a special invitation to play the game. No wonder so many struggle with imposter syndrome.

2. This skewed narrative distorts approaches to professional development

Men receive standard management training, but women get ‘special leadership’ training, as though leadership is something they need to learn rather than an inherent trait.

3. Leadership qualities are not gender-specific

Qualities such as empathy, decision-making, and team-building are vital skills for any leader – and are to be found as readily in women as in men.

 

… and three ways to lose the empowerment mindset

 

1. Think of your voice as a superpower

Whether you’re speaking up in a meeting, writing an article or just sharing your thoughts with a friend, your voice has the power to change hearts and minds. Don’t wait for someone to ask for your opinion – offer it, loudly and proudly.

2. Say ‘yes’ to opportunities that excite you

Make choices that align with your values and goals. Trust yourself to know what’s best for you. And say no to things that don’t serve you!

3. Envision yourself as the lead character in your own story

Don’t wait for someone else’s validation. Create your own path and carve out success on your own terms. You’re not behind a great man: you’re beside every great person, making your mark in your distinct way.
 

Key learning

You don’t need to be ‘empowered’ to lead – you need to act on your inherent leadership potential. The skills you need are already within you. You just need to recognize and harness them.

Authors

Shelley Zalis

Founder and CEO of The Female Quotient

Shelley Zalis – CEO, Founder, and “Chief Troublemaker” of The Female Quotient – is an entrepreneur, three-time movement maker, and advocate for reshaping the workplace for the modern era. She is redefining leadership and challenging outdated systems.

At The FQ, Zalis built the largest global community of women in business across 30 industries in more than 100 countries. Previously, she transformed market research by founded OTX, later selling it to Ipsos. She co-created #SeeHer, championing accurate portrayals of women and girls in media.

A LinkedIn Top Voice and contributor to TIME and Forbes, Zalis’ accolades include the Global Leaders 50 List and Fast Company’s Brands That Matter.

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