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We’ve all heard of the “glass ceiling,” that invisible barrier keeping women from climbing to the top of the career ladder.
But some women have done more than just tap on that ceiling—they’ve smashed right through it. So, the real question is, how did they do it? What are the secrets of these trailblazers who’ve rewritten the rules and redefined success?
In this article, we’ll explore the 7 habits of women who successfully shattered the glass ceiling. Whether you’re just starting your career, looking to climb higher, or simply seeking inspiration from those who’ve already made it, these insights will give you the fuel you need. So, read on! 
1. Cultivate Unshakeable Confidence
Confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you build. The women who’ve shattered the glass ceiling didn’t just believe in themselves; they radiated confidence. They walked into boardrooms with their heads held high, even when they were the only woman in the room.
Confidence is so contagious that when you believe in yourself, others will too. But how do you build unshakeable confidence? Start by recognizing your strengths. What are you really good at? Focus on those areas and let them shine. Also, don’t be afraid to take risks. The women who broke barriers didn’t play it safe; they took calculated risks and learned from their failures.
2. Embrace Continuous Learning
Women who’ve shattered the glass ceiling never stopped growing. They read voraciously, took courses, and constantly sought out new knowledge. Why? Because they knew that to stay ahead, they had to keep evolving.
This is especially true today, where continuous learning is more critical than ever. Plus, it gives you an edge in those high-stakes meetings where knowledge truly is power. So, register for a new skill, attend workshops, seminars, conferences, and ensure you constantly deposit into your knowledge bank.
3. Build a Powerful Network
You’ve probably heard the saying that it’s not what you know, but who you know. While that is not entirely true, there’s a level of wisdom in it. The women who’ve shattered the glass ceiling built powerful networks that supported their ambitions. They knew that success wasn’t a solo journey but a team effort.
Networking isn’t just collecting business cards or sending out LinkedIn connections. It is building meaningful relationships with mentors, peers, and even those you mentor.
These connections can open doors, provide guidance, and offer support when the going gets tough. So, go ahead, attend conferences, join a professional group, and don’t shy away from introducing yourself to someone new.
4. Master the Art of Negotiation
Women who’ve smashed the glass ceiling didn’t just accept what was offered; they asked for more. They mastered the art of negotiation, understood that if you don’t ask, you don’t get, and went all in to ask for a raise, a promotion, and better work conditions.
Negotiation can be intimidating, yes, but it’s a crucial skill to develop. Start by doing your homework: know your worth or the value you bring to the table, understand the market, and be clear on what you want.
Then, practice your pitch. The more you negotiate, the better you’ll get at it. And remember that negotiation isn’t just about money but also about ensuring that your contributions are valued and recognized.
5. Balance Ambition with Authenticity
Ambition is essential, but so is authenticity. The women who’ve shattered the glass ceiling didn’t try to fit into someone else’s mold. They stayed true to themselves, even in environments that might have encouraged them to change. They knew that their uniqueness was their strength.
Being authentic means being honest about your values, your goals, and your boundaries. It means not compromising your integrity for the sake of influence. When you’re authentic, you build trust, and trust is a cornerstone of leadership. So, don’t be afraid to let your true self shine – it’s your best asset.
6. Maintain Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Here’s a hard truth: the journey to shattering the glass ceiling isn’t smooth. There are bumps, bruises, and sometimes even broken hearts along the way. But the women who’ve made it to the top didn’t let adversity stop them. They bounced back stronger every time they were knocked down.
Resilience is more than just toughing it out; it’s about learning and growing from every challenge. It’s also about keeping your eye on the prize, even when the road gets rocky. And most importantly, it’s about not letting setbacks define you because every time you rise from a fall, you’re that much closer to breaking through.
7. Champion Other Women
The women who’ve shattered the glass ceiling helped others get there too. They championed other women, mentored them, and created opportunities for them to shine. They understood that true success isn’t just about personal achievement but also about lifting others as you climb.
There are many ways to champion other women, such as mentoring a junior colleague, advocating for women-friendly policies, and being a role model. When you support other women, you’re helping to create a future where the glass ceiling is nothing more than a distant memory.
In Conclusion,
Shattering the glass ceiling requires a combination of grit, determination, and a whole lot of courage. By cultivating these seven habits, women can increase their chances of achieving success in their careers.
