The quote emphasizes a common experience faced by women in leadership roles: the struggle between seeking approval from others and asserting one’s authority as a leader. Women are often socialized to prioritize harmony and agreement, which can make it challenging when they need to act decisively and assert their vision without unanimous support.
On a deeper level, this statement touches on broader societal expectations for women versus men in professional settings. It highlights the inherent conflict many women face between adhering to cultural norms that value consensus-building and empathy and fulfilling the demands of leadership roles that require decisive action and sometimes unpopular decisions. This duality underscores the unique challenges women leaders encounter in balancing their personal values with professional responsibilities, often leading them to navigate complex social dynamics within their organizations.
Susanna Fogel is an American actress, writer, director, and producer known for her work on television and film. She has been vocal about the experiences of women in the entertainment industry and beyond, using her platform to advocate for more inclusive leadership practices and to support other women navigating similar challenges in their careers.
