Not All Women Want To Be #Inspired.
The scenario goes like this. I enter a networking event, a fashionable beach side cafe where 20 women are gathered. They have convened to sample charcuterie, swill sauvignon and listen to speakers (also women) share their #amazing stories of hardship — and triumph — in business. They are gathered to build a sense of #authenticity and get #vulnerable on how #HardTheHustleIs. The evening is good and I walk away feeling energetic, even #inspired.
But when the daily grind sets in and my new found #BusinessBesties are gone, I struggle with motivation and productivity. I struggle with the hard stuff like deal negotiations, setting consulting rates and figuring out just what my #PassionPoint really is. You know, that gooey intersection between What You’re Good At, What Your Life Purpose Is, and, What People Will Pay Lots Of Cold Hard Cash For.
#Secret: there isn’t one definitive soul purpose. And there certainly isn’t one breakthrough silver bullet that an exxy business coach can shine ‘clarity’ on.
There just isn’t.
Truth is, achieving any level of financial success in business, or online is HARD. Like scaling the Dawn Wall hard. And it requires more than an #abundance #mindset and being #grateful for all that you have.
Really, Ladies! Do we see our male countetparts gaggling on this way? No we absolutely do not. No wonder so many of us are struggling with the “good girl” syndrome — well into our late 30s — and beyond. Not to mention the abhorrent lack of female Executive and Board representation, and the gross pay inequity.
I digress.
When I walk into a newsagency and look at the business section, I want to see media targeted to women that doesn’t make me feel like I’m sixteen. Let’s call this out for what it is — they are “lifestyle” publicationsinfused with #incredible stories and #inspo fluff. Honesty, if I pay 12 bucks I want to read about practical advice that teaches me how to deal with “hard business” in a practical way.
I want to be seen as capable like a man.
Not that I am not, and certainly not that you are not, but I want the media and women in business groups to understand that I have serious aspirations.
I want media and womens’ groups to cater to this.
I’m asking them to teach me the hard stuff without coming across as aggressive.
I need to know how to stand my ground with respect.
I hope to read about how seriously successful men AND women are SHOWING their peers how it’s done.
I’m anxious to see women teaching other women, and writing about developing “hard business skills” and how to deal with the #RealWorld.
Now I enjoy glossy lifestyles like the next woman and I appreciate the lovely quotes and beautifully styled pictures. But when I read them I want to see more substance. I want to know how I can #GetThereToo.
What about you?
Tweet me @ByVanessaW
