Women have a complicated relationship with ambition. Owning our ambition feels uncomfortable because while men are encouraged and supported to be ambitious, women are often chastised for any public declaration. This hesitation on our part to fully embrace it has consequences for those of us who have the desire to succeed, as well as for companies who have the goal of increasing female representation in leadership.
For women, the reluctance to claim our ambition affects not only our ability to succeed in the workplace but also influences our identity and happiness. Receiving recognition for our accomplishments has a positive impact on our work as well as our sense of well-being.
For companies that have the sincere intention of attracting, retaining, and promoting their female talent, there is a need to find a way to foster an environment to support women in their ambition over the course of their careers.