Just the other day, I heard a familiar narrative: “Women make better leaders.”

The reasons often cited?
Empathy. Organisation. Being people-centric. Results-driven.

I recently heard a commencement speech by Roger Federer where he shared something surprising. Even at the highest level of tennis, he only won about 54% of the points he played.

Some years ago, I went through a major life event that shook me deeply. It felt like my world had collapsed. It shattered my self-identity.

For a while, I lived with the question:
“Why is this happening to me?”

I’ve been reflecting on what leadership really comes down to.

Whether leading teams, coaching leaders, or building my own business, I’ve noticed that most problems aren’t capability problems.

They’re alignment problems.

Lately, I’ve been noticing a tension within myself.

One part of me wants to step forward to be more visible: to share ideas, to influence, to make a difference. But another part is pulling the brakes: “Be careful. Don’t look like you’re seeking attention.”

Both voices feel true.

Here’s why I’m even talking about this.