5 Big Reasons Why Executive Women Struggle

As I sit here at the beginning of 2025, planning for an amazing year ahead, I can't help but reflect. With the current economic uncertainty, we tend to see a 'flight to the conservative,' resulting in more conservative hiring decisions that frequently marginalise women.

This trend, coupled with the existing systemic barriers women face, makes breaking into the C-suite an even greater challenge. The struggle is real for executive women, and it often feels like two steps forward and one step backward.

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You are absolutely enough. It’s not your fault.

Let’s face it – the odds are stacked against women on so many levels. But instead of carrying that baggage around, let’s unpack it so you can focus on being the incredible, impactful leader you are.

The Main Reasons Why Executive Women Struggle to Break into the C-Suite

1. The System Is Broken Systemic bias is embedded throughout corporate and government culture. It manifests in limited access to real opportunities, a lack of champions or sponsors, a scarcity of inspiring role models, and an abundance of double standards. Equal pay is still far from reality unless women fight tooth and nail for it, often risking backlash as a result.
2. Lack of Progress and Recognition Women often bear the burden of over-proof - not just feeling the need to do things perfectly, but also expected to jump through more hoops as well. This constant pressure is exhausting, eroding confidence and personal energy. Research shows that for a woman to secure a seat at the table, she must be as smart as, if not smarter than, the most intelligent man in the room. Plus studies also tell us that while a woman has to prove a track record to be promoted, men are more likely to be promoted on potential. This leaves many women wondering if the effort is even worth it.
3. Lack of Strategy When nothing seems to work, women try anything and everything, often leading to exhaustion. This can also result in following well-meaning but poor advice that doesn’t address the unique challenges women face in the workplace.
4. Self-Doubt The endless cycle of second-guessing, underestimating, downplaying achievements, and dealing with imposter syndrome takes a toll. Add the pressure to maintain a certain physical appearance, along with perimenopause and menopause, and it’s no wonder exhaustion becomes a constant companion.
5. No Clear Path to Leadership Many women struggle to transition from being high achievers with big goals to recognised C-suite contenders. Instead, they’re often patted on the head and told to wait their turn.

With only ~5% of CEO roles in ASX-listed companies held by women, the struggle for female executives is real. These systemic barriers don’t just harm individual careers – they’re bad for businesses and society as a whole.

A Message of Empowerment

I founded my company with a mission: to help women play a much bigger game, with big ideas, big impact with bucket loads of confidence. Together, we can shift the balance of power and create a better, more equitable world for everyone.

Remember, the system may be flawed, but that doesn’t mean you should stop trying. However do leave the guilt, shame, and self-doubt behind and focus instead on your goals and dreams. Ambition is not a dirty word – no matter your gender.

Your Next Steps

Leave the baggage behind and step into the leadership role you’re destined for.?

You’re not alone on this journey – and with the right tools, strategy, and mindset, you can break through the barriers and thrive.

YOUR THOUGHTS? ??

P.S. And if you're raring to go and can't wait to take 2025 by storm, join the waitlist to chat about how 1:1 coaching can help you. May 2025 be brilliant for you and your career!

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Hi there! I’m Amanda Blesing. You already know me from LinkedIn, my blog and articles featured in popular women’s and business magazines.

I’m the Founder of The Ambition Revolution, and a 1:1 Coach for women who want to claim and own their seat at the table.

I’m also a 2x author, best known for my Amazon best-seller Invisible to Invincible—a self-promotion handbook for executive women.

Head to www.amandablesing.com to learn more.

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