Ever feel like you’re driving with the handbrake on? You’re pressing the gas, but something’s holding you back. Let’s uncover those sneaky barriers that keep even the most talented, accomplished women from stepping into their true power.
It’s not about lacking skill or ambition. It’s about the silent traps we often set for ourselves without realising it. Here are five that resonate with my journey and those of the amazing women I’ve coached.
1. The People-Pleaser’s Bind
I remember trying so hard to be everything to everyone: boss, colleague, friend, mother. It’s exhausting. When you’re wired to please, you end up stretched thin, often losing sight of your own needs and goals.
Trying to make everyone happy is like trying to fill a bucket with a hole in the bottom. It never fills. And guess what? People respect you more when you set boundaries and prioritise what matters.
2. Chasing Someone Else’s Dream
There was a time when I realised I wasn’t living my own dream. I was chasing a version of success that didn’t even resonate with me. A corner office? Prestige? It looked good on paper, but my heart wasn’t in it.
When we imitate the desires of others, we sideline our authentic selves. The result? Achievement without fulfilment. Real success is feeling aligned with what you do. It’s about waking up excited, not just ticking boxes.
3. The Status Symbol Snare
Status is a seductive trap. Who doesn’t want recognition? But chasing status without questioning the ‘why’ leads to an empty victory lap. I’ve seen clients hit big titles, only to realise they’re lonelier, more stressed, and disconnected.
Ask yourself: Is this about validation or genuine impact? The ladder is tall, but are you climbing the right one?
4. The Solo Superhero Syndrome
I used to think asking for help was a sign of weakness. So, I piled on responsibilities until burnout knocked at my door. Many of my clients share similar stories, high-achieving women shouldering it all.
Here’s a secret: superheroes have teams. Behind every leader is a network of support. Collaboration is not a weakness; it’s smart strategy.
5. The Juggler’s Jinx
We pride ourselves on multitasking. But dividing attention across too many projects is like spinning too many plates, some will crash. Focus creates momentum.
I’ve learned that clarity and focus are superpowers. When you concentrate on fewer priorities, you achieve more and feel less frazzled. It’s about depth, not breadth.
The Reflection
Which one of these traps do you find yourself caught in? For me, it was a blend of all five at different times. What I’ve realised is that each of these patterns is a response to deeper beliefs about worth, validation, and belonging.
Here’s a gentle nudge: You’re not alone in these struggles. And you don’t have to stay stuck. Whether it’s through high performance coaching, wayfinding, or addressing imposter syndrome, there are proven strategies to break free.
If you’re ready to stop treading water and start swimming towards your version of success, I invite you to explore how coaching can support you. It’s about more than just reaching goals. It’s about reclaiming your spark and living with joy, engagement, and confidence.
Remember, you can unleash your unique version of success!
Your Coach
Stephanie
Ready to Ignite Your SPARK?
As a Certified High Performance, Wayfinder and Imposter Syndrome Informed Coach, I’m here to support you on this transformative journey. Whether it’s in your career, health, or relationships, my coaching programs are designed to help you achieve heightened and sustained levels of performance and potential. Are you ready to embrace these inner shifts then let’s embark on this journey together!
Whenever you’re ready, here are a few ways I can support you:
Join our IYS Community – to connect with like-minded individuals focused on increasing their ENGAGEMENT, CONFIDENCE & JOY in work (and life)
Access your FREE Online Training – and learn how you can immediately hit higher levels of performance and potential in all you do!
Take the High Performance Questionnaire – to understand if you’re ready to go to the next level and live a life full of engagement, joy and confidence…
Book a Chat – so we can breakthrough what you’re currently challenged with and take the next action towards living the life of your dreams!