What’s really holding you back from your full potential?

Have you ever felt stuck in your leadership journey — like you’re running in place, giving everything you’ve got, but still not moving forward? You’re not alone. Many ambitious women, especially those in male-dominated industries, face unseen barriers that keep them from becoming the leaders they wish to be.

But here’s the thing: The biggest obstacles in your leadership journey aren’t always the external ones — they’re often the ones that lie within.

The most common internal challenges: are imposter syndrome and lack of self-awareness

Imposter syndrome is that relentless voice in your head telling you you’re not good enough, that you don’t belong, or that it’s only a matter of time before everyone sees through you. It pushes you to overcompensate, to prove yourself constantly, and leaves you feeling drained and inadequate no matter how much you achieve.

Then there’s a lack of self-awareness. Like many of my mentees who turn to me, you also probably know your strengths but don’t know exactly what they should tell you and how you could use them effectively.  Or maybe you have a vague sense of your capabilities but don’t know how to leverage them to stand out in your current position. Without self-awareness, it’s easy to feel lost, undervalued, or stuck.

What if you could change these narratives?

Imagine waking up every day with unshakable confidence, knowing exactly what you bring to the table and how to use it to your advantage. Picture walking into meetings feeling powerful, valued, and respected, with that internal critic silenced and your unique strengths on full display.

What would that mean for your career? For your happiness? For the impact you want to create?

Science Says: Self-awareness is a game-changer

Research shows that leaders with high self-awareness are more confident, effective, and successful. According to a Harvard Business Review study, people who understand their strengths and weaknesses are 32% more likely to feel satisfied in their roles and 20% more likely to make better decisions at work. Another study by Korn Ferry found that companies with highly self-aware leaders are more profitable, innovative, and sustainable.

But here’s the twist — only about 10-15% of people are truly self-aware. That means most leaders are operating with a partial view of themselves, missing key insights that could make all the difference.

So how can you become one of the few who know their strengths — and how to use them?

Let’s start with a quick, practical exercise to sharpen your self-awareness today

1. List your top 5 strengths: Think about times you’ve received positive feedback, moments when you felt in your element or qualities that others frequently compliment. Write down your top five strengths, you could also use the Gallup Strengthfinder. 
2. Reflect on a recent challenge: Recall a situation at work where you felt insecure, overwhelmed, or unsure of yourself. Jot down a few notes about it.
3. Identify a strength you could have used: Look back at your list of strengths. Choose one that could have helped you navigate that situation more effectively. Reflect on how using this strength might have changed the outcome or your perception.
4. Plan to leverage this strength: Think about an upcoming challenge. How will you consciously apply this strength? Write down a quick plan or intention.

Your Next Step: You don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. With the right support, you can transform your internal barriers into stepping stones toward your greatest potential.

This is where my 1:1 mentoring or joining a community like the Women’s Leadership Retreat comes in. These opportunities provide the tools, insights, and support you need to overcome self-doubt, grow your self-awareness, and thrive.

So, are you ready to take the next step? I’m here to help you unlock your full potential and become the person you wish to see in the world.

Reach out today to learn more about how we can work together.

Study Sources

• Korn Ferry: Research on Self-Awareness and Leadership Performance.
• Eurich, T. (2018). Insight: The Surprising Truth About How Others See Us, How We See Ourselves, and Why the Answers Matter More Than We Think.