Advice To My Younger Self: Women In Leadership Edition 2025

I wish someone had told me that I deserve a seat at the table. No matter what level you’re at in your career, your voice holds value in rooms where decisions are being made and can help drive meaningful progress across your organization. We all experience a level of self-doubt – and at times, imposter syndrome – the feeling that we’re not good enough, which thrives in silence. So, we've established that you deserve the seat... now, how do you get it? Raise your hand, advocate for yourself, and give yourself permission to affirm your accomplishments and future potential. And finally, surround yourself with people who will serve as champions in your corner, helping you disrupt the imposter syndrome and get to the tables and rooms where you belong.

Embrace challenges—even those that seem uninteresting or intimidating at first. The greatest growth often comes from difficult or uncomfortable situations, so don’t shy away from them. Prioritize your development and be open to learning through experience. Always speak up—your voice and perspective matter more than you think. Pay attention to people, share stories, and actively invest in building and maintaining relationships. Leadership is not just about direction, it's about connection—and that’s where its true power lies.  

Ask the questions that no one asks. Built a critical perspective and be able to have an independent opinion that is derived from first principles. That allows you to bring up your arguments and justifications with no need to be loud and vocal as truths and facts are much easier to get accepted even within a challenging audience.

You’re not too sensitive—you’re deeply tuned in. That emotional intelligence you keep second-guessing? It’s your superpower. Leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about asking the right questions, really listening, and having the courage to say the thing that needs to be said. So trust your gut, don’t wait for permission, and take the mic.

Always focus on the big picture and understand why and how your work matters, take time to understand its impact. This will also motivate you to give your best. Take ownership and accountability for solving the problem - raise your hand, don't be afraid of trying new things, learning skills and ask questions. "Asking for help shows strength and courage - it's not a weakness."

One of my favorite quotes is "leap and the net will appear". As women in the workforce, we are sometimes hesitant to leap without first having figured everything out. Meanwhile, our male counterparts are off running, already yelling "yes" at the top of their lungs when many haven't even heard the rest of the question. Say yes first and KNOW you'll be shown the path. 

Always be yourself! If you don't have a good gut feeling about something, don't do it – regardless of what others think or whether they will be disappointed. Don't fight an internal battle with the intention of ‘being liked’. You will never be able to please everyone – so why not just be yourself, especially for yourself! And keep in mind: ‘no - is a complete sentence’

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned — and wish I’d embraced much earlier — is the power of making your work visible, both inside and outside your organization. It’s not enough to do great work; you have to document it, talk about it, and share it in the right rooms and forums. Find opportunities to present to senior leaders, contribute to industry discussions, and build your presence publicly. And above all, learn early to choose work that clearly ties to the business’s biggest goals. Visibility and impact go hand in hand — master both, and you set yourself apart.

You don’t have to shrink to fit in, own your voice, take up space, and lead with confidence. Trust your instincts, especially when you’re the only woman in the room, they got you this far, and they’ll take you further. In tech, where problems are complex and the path isn’t always clear, it’s your passion and hard work that will set you apart and carry you forward.

Building meaningful connections in your industry before you need them is invaluable - it's about creating genuine relationships rather than just collecting business cards. If you find yourself in a role or career path that doesn't feel right, remember that changing direction isn't a failure - it's often the smartest decision you can make. Your mental health should always be a priority, not an afterthought, because no job is worth compromising your well-being. Take on those challenging projects that make you slightly nervous, keep learning new skills, and embrace opportunities for growth - these moments of discomfort are often where the most significant professional development happens. The workplace is constantly evolving, and staying adaptable while taking care of yourself is key to long-term success.

Reflect, Rise, and Lead Forward

These reflections aren't just personal notes—they're guideposts for the next generation of women in leadership. They reveal not only how far we've come but how much further we can go when we lead with intention, authenticity, and the courage to advocate for ourselves and others.

At WomenTech Network, we believe leadership is not a title—it's a responsibility. Whether you're just beginning your career or are a seasoned executive, your journey matters. Your insights matter. And your willingness to empower others makes all the difference.

Each year, we also honor the exceptional impact of women leaders through the WomenTech Global Awards—a celebration of innovation, inclusion, and leadership excellence across the tech industry. From emerging talents to established executives, this global stage amplifies stories that inspire the world. Explore the Women in Tech Global Awards here.

If you're ready to share your voice, shape the future of tech, and surround yourself with a global network of pioneering women leaders, consider joining us as a Founding Member or Executive Member.

What advice would you give to your younger self? Contribute to our collaborative article and join women across the globe who are reflecting on their journeys and sharing the lessons that shaped their leadership.