worth fighting for freedom from stereotypes of women

"If we're to honor a day for women, let it be a celebration of freedom from stereotypes:

• Instead of applauding women for being the hidden force behind a successful man, let's acknowledge their own achievements.
• Rather than revering motherhood for its sacrifices, let's work towards alleviating the need for those sacrifices.
• Let's move away from emphasizing a woman's beauty and instead recognize the importance of her inner qualities.
• Instead of praising women solely for their familial roles, let's celebrate them as individuals, independent of their relationships.
• Instead of glorifying her ability to multitask, let's strive to simplify her life.
• Let's stop imposing unrealistic expectations of balance on women and allow them to embrace their imperfections and find happiness.

Wishing all the wonderful women a very happy Women's Day!" March 8th,

**

I make a valid observation. I've found myself unimpressed by many prominent CEOs and politicians. One common trait among them is a sense of entitlement, often instilled in them from a young age as many come from affluent backgrounds. Typically, they receive private education and attend prestigious universities, reinforcing the notion of their exceptionalism and entitlement to success. This environment also fosters networks that enable individuals with mediocre talent to attain positions of power.

Conversely, if you've had to earn your way up based on merit, the sooner you feel a sense of belonging, the sooner you'll attain the success you've rightfully earned. This principle applies universally to both men and women.

**

It's worth fighting for your cause:

1. Gender Equality and Empowerment: Advocating for a world where women are not forced to conform but rather where the world adjusts to accommodate them.

2. Recognition of Women's Leadership: Highlighting the diverse roles women play in society, from corporate leadership to homemaking, and emphasizing their contributions to the world.

3. Self-Acceptance and Confidence: Encouraging women to embrace their uniqueness, celebrate their strengths, and see their imperfections as gifts.

4. Strength and Resilience in Male-Dominated Fields: Acknowledging the challenges women face in traditionally male-dominated environments and celebrating their grace, strength, and fearlessness in overcoming them.

5. Acknowledgment of Women's Untapped Potential: Recognizing the vast reservoir of talent within women and the need to unleash it for the betterment of society.

6. Integrity and Character Over Status: Emphasizing the importance of integrity and character in leadership, beyond mere status or connections.

7. Empathy and Compassion: Highlighting the significance of treating all individuals with respect and kindness, especially those who are marginalized or forgotten.

8. Leadership as Empowerment: Viewing true leadership as the ability to inspire and uplift others, rather than seeking personal praise or recognition.

9. Personal Growth and Reflection: Sharing personal stories of growth, self-discovery, and the realization of one's worth beyond societal expectations.

10. Awareness of Societal Pressures and Self-Reflection: Reflecting on the influence of societal norms and media portrayals on personal aspirations and acknowledging the need for self-awareness and self-empowerment.

These themes collectively advocate for a world where women are valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential, while also encouraging self-reflection and personal growth.

**
Arianna Huffington 
[Karen S. Lynch]
President and Chief Executive Officer at CVS HealthPresident and Chief Executive Officer at CVS Health
57m • 57m •

Until now, I seldom shared my personal story because I had always considered myself the plainest person you could ever meet: Karen Jones from East Street in Ware, Massachusetts, a mill town founded in 1717 with a population just over 10,000.

If someone had asked me what my career goal was in high school or college, I don’t know if I would have aimed very high. At that time, in the late 1970s and early 1980s, there was a specific kind of individual considered to be leadership material, and as a result, able to access broad professional opportunities. Those individuals didn’t look like me or have my background.

I worked hard throughout college, balancing school and a part-time job. After college, I earned a series of jobs in the business field and worked diligently to deliver on my professional commitments. This is what we’re supposed to do to advance our careers, right? And yet, after many years of professional experience, I was told I didn’t fit the profile when I was being considered for a senior executive role at a large company.

I recall one particular story: Earlier in my career, while working as a mid-level manager, I was invited to a meeting with the senior managers of my division. I’d worked at the company for years, coming in early and leaving late, keeping my head down, and putting in long hours. I believed all of this would lead to the next career step.

So, I was excited to participate in this meeting, which I considered to be recognition of my success and standing at the company. I remember my heart racing as I tried to appear calm while walking down the hall to the executive conference room. I’d never been in this room, nor in the presence of these divisional leaders. I tried anticipating the questions that would come up and how I might answer them if asked. As I entered the room, I asked one of the leaders where I should sit.

Barely glancing up, he said, “Sit in the back, not at the table, because women just take up space.”

I want my story to inspire others to lead differently. I want to share how I’ve used my voice to overcome barriers and create opportunities to make a difference. I hope my story becomes part of the conversation around taking up space and that it encourages others to do the same.

That’s why I wrote a book. I called it…what else…“Taking Up Space.” And that’s why I’m donating the proceeds from the book to nonprofit organizations whose missions and initiatives support mental well-being and empower young women — two causes that are important to my story.

Thank you for allowing me to share my story with you — and if you have a moment, I would love to hear yours.
Karen S. Lynch
karenslynch.com • 1 min read

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