Breaking the female stereotype

Have you ever felt frustrated watching others, maybe even your boyfriend, climb the career ladder with less effort while you work so hard and still feel unseen? It’s an upsetting feeling, but it doesn’t have to define your story. Let’s talk about why.

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I’m writing this as I fly from Australia to the UK, fresh from watching the film Young Woman and Water. It tells the story of Trudy Ederle, the first woman to swim the English Channel in 1926. Trudy faced sabotage from her male coach and a world that didn’t believe in women’s abilities, but she didn’t let that stop her. Her courage made me think about how far we’ve come in nearly 100 years—and how much further we still need to go on an individual level!


How far we’ve come—and what still holds us back

There’s no doubt that women have more rights and opportunities today than ever before (get it girls!) But when we look closely, some old patterns still exist. Research shows that men are more likely to apply for jobs even if they don’t meet all the requirements, while women often hesitate unless they feel fully qualified. It’s not because women lack skills, but because society has taught us to doubt ourselves.

Before I became a life coach, I worked hard in the legal world, trying to become a solicitor. I remember staying late every night during a two-week placement, giving my all to impress. Meanwhile, my male housemate, who copied most of my work, got the role I wanted. Later, I found out that the firm had only hired men that year and paid them much more than their female colleagues.

At the time, it felt unfair and disheartening. Experiences like that can make us believe we have to work twice as hard for half the reward. But here’s the truth: These events don't define us and don't shape our futures. They knock our confidence and condition us to believe that we aren't worthy. But it doesn't have to be this way.


Writing your own story

Even if the world doesn’t always make things easy, you have the power to decide how you show up in it. Trudy Ederle didn’t let people’s doubts stop her. She believed in herself and stayed true to who she was.

So let this be a lesson: Radical self-belief = results. 

When you believe in yourself and value who you are, something magical happens. You start to attract opportunities that match your worth. This isn’t about forcing things to happen—it’s about trusting that you deserve good things and being open to receiving them. Believing in yourself changes how you feel inside, and that creates a positive ripple effect in your life.


The power of your feminine strengths

Sometimes, women feel pressure to toughen up or conform to expectations in a world that often prioritises masculine traits. But your innate qualities—empathy, intuition, and kindness—are extraordinary strengths, not weaknesses.

As beautifully expressed in the Barbie movie, “I can hold both emotion and logic at the same time.” This ability is a profound source of power. You don’t have to choose between being logical or emotional; they’re not opposites—they’re allies that work together harmoniously.

By embracing your gifts like collaboration, creativity, and emotional intelligence, you’re not just fitting into the world—you’re reshaping it. These traits spark connection, foster innovation, and bring a fresh perspective. Trust in your authenticity, and remember that being true to yourself is your greatest superpower. Absolutely embrace this ladies!!

The struggle with vulnerability

For high-achieving women, breaking stereotypes often means stepping outside of their comfort zones. This can be particularly challenging because it requires vulnerability—something many ambitious women find difficult. Letting go of control and trusting the process can feel uncomfortable, even risky. After all, vulnerability means allowing yourself to be seen fully, imperfections and all.

Many high-achieving women have built their success by staying in control and working hard, but breaking free from stereotypes often requires a different approach. It’s about softening, trusting, and letting go in ways that might feel unfamiliar. This can be intimidating, but it’s also where true growth happens.

Working with a life coach can help you navigate this journey. A coach provides a safe and supportive space to explore your fears and gently challenge the patterns that are keeping you stuck. Together, you can work through the discomfort of vulnerability in a practical and manageable way, building trust in yourself and the process.

A simple activity to kickstart breaking stereotypes:

Here’s an easy and gentle exercise to help you step away from stereotypes and into your own power (you can do this on the notes section of your phone whenever you need a quick empowerment pick-me-up!):

  • Notice the stereotypes: Write down any beliefs or ideas about women that you feel have held you back. For example, “Women have to work harder to be respected.”
  • Question them: Ask yourself, “Is this really true? Where did this belief come from? Does it still need to be part of my life?”
  • Reframe the belief: Replace each old belief with something positive. For example, “I am valuable just as I am, and my work speaks for itself.”
  • Take a small step: Think of one action that aligns with your new belief. It could be speaking up in a meeting, taking time for self-care, or applying for a role you’ve been hesitant about.
  • Celebrate yourself: At the end of the day, take a moment to acknowledge your efforts and remind yourself of your worth.

How life coaching can help

Ultimately, breaking free from female stereotypes begins with trusting yourself and embracing your inherent self-worth. Building this trust takes courage, but it’s also deeply empowering. A life coach can provide the support, tools, and guidance to help you strengthen your confidence and challenge limiting beliefs. With each small step forward, you reclaim your power and step into the driver’s seat of your life— doesn't that sound great. Go get 'em, ladies!

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The views expressed in this article are those of the author. All articles published on Life Coach Directory are reviewed by our editorial team.

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Cardiff CF24 & London SW1P
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Written by Confidence with Clarissa
International Accredited Confidence Coach (Dip) (LLB)
location_on Cardiff CF24 & London SW1P
Clarissa is an internationally accredited coach specialising in empowering people to feel secure in their identity, life direction, and relationships. Over the past 5 years, she has worked with over 200 individuals. Her expertise includes 1-on-1 sess...
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