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Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling

The Double-Edged Sword of "Having It All"


two women at an exercise class

In the journey toward gender equality, women have shattered countless glass ceilings, carving out spaces for themselves in boardrooms, laboratories, and political arenas once dominated by men. This relentless drive and determination have not only opened doors but have also redefined what women can achieve. However, in the pursuit of "having it all," many women find themselves caught in a whirlwind of responsibilities that can lead to depletion and burnout.


The term "glass ceiling" refers to the invisible barriers that prevent women from reaching the highest echelons of their professions. Over the past few decades, women have made significant strides, proving time and again that their talents and skills are on par with their male counterparts. From leading Fortune 500 companies to pioneering scientific research, women have demonstrated their capability to excel in any field they choose.


Yet, as women break through these barriers, another challenge emerges: the expectation to excel in all areas of life simultaneously. The modern woman is often expected to be a successful professional, a nurturing mother, a supportive partner, and a community leader—all while maintaining her own personal health and well-being. This expectation to "have it all" can create a sense of pressure that is both exhilarating and exhausting.


Juggling these diverse roles requires a superhuman level of organisation and energy. Women often find themselves stretched thin, running from a meeting to soccer practice to a 4 year old birthday party and then back into the corporate space. While multitasking can be a valuable skill, the constant demand to be everything to everyone can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion. The pursuit of perfection in every aspect of life can leave women feeling like they are falling short, despite their significant achievements.


This relentless drive to "have it all" can result in burnout. The signs are subtle at first—fatigue, irritability, a sense of being overwhelmed—but they can escalate into more serious health issues if left unaddressed. It's important for women to recognise that while ambition is commendable, self-care is essential. Achieving balance doesn't mean giving up on dreams; it means prioritising and setting realistic expectations.


One key to managing this balance is learning to say no. It's okay to decline additional responsibilities or delegate tasks when necessary. Setting boundaries can help maintain a healthier work-life balance and prevent the encroachment of demands into personal time. Seeking support is crucial. Whether it's enlisting the help of a partner, hiring a babysitter, or simply reaching out to friends for a listening ear, having a support system can alleviate some of the pressure. It's also important for workplaces to foster environments that support work-life balance, with policies like flexible working hours and parental leave.


So, while breaking through the glass ceiling is a monumental achievement, it's essential to recognise the toll that the pursuit of "having it all" can take. Women must prioritise their well-being and set boundaries to prevent burnout. By doing so, they can continue to excel in their careers and personal lives without sacrificing their health and happiness. After all, true success is not just about what we achieve, but how we feel while achieving it.


If you’re struggling with a feeling over overwhelm- book a discovery call now. Lets chat. 

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