Navigating the Bias Maze

A Woman's Guide to Conquering Everyday Obstacles

I came across a UN Report Launched On 12 June'23 which revealed No Improvement In The Level Of Prejudice Shown Against Women Over The Past Decade, With Almost Nine Out Of 10 Men And Women Worldwide, Still Holding Such Biases.

So, today we're diving headfirst into the wild world of biases that us fabulous women face every single day. Spoiler alert: we're not just talking about the 'is she bossy or confident' kinda stuff. We're going deep, with a splash of dark humor, because sometimes, laughter is the only way to cope with the absurdity of it all. So, grab your coffee and brace yourselves for a rollercoaster ride.

Now, don't get me wrong; I love being a woman. But navigating the biases thrown our way is like surviving a reality show with plot twists that M. Night Shyamalan would envy. We're talking the 'only here to take notes' vibe in meetings or the classic 'dress to impress but not distract' paradox. So how to conquer these murky waters.

1. The 'You're Too Emotional' Hurdle: Picture this: I'm passionately pitching a groundbreaking idea, and suddenly, the room turns into an emotionless vacuum. Apparently, if you're expressive, you're "too emotional," but if you're not, you're "uninterested." Talk about a catch-22. Solution? Embrace your passion; channel your inner Daenerys, minus the dragons.

2. The 'Glass Ceiling' Iceberg: Ah, the famed glass ceiling – ever-present and oh-so-shiny. Sure, we've cracked a few spots, but let's be real, there are more cracks in a preschooler's art project. Overcome this by bringing a sledgehammer of confidence and a toolbox of qualifications. Break through those limitations like a boss. Speaking of which...

3. The 'Boss Balance' Debate: You’re assertive? You're the boss? Nope, you are something else. Balancing between assertiveness and likability is like trying to juggle flamingos – a tad bit absurd. The trick? Remember that being a leader doesn’t mean you have to wear a mask of sternness. Be a boss with a sprinkle of charm, or just find your brand of balance.

Creating a Culture of Inclusion: Now, hold on, people. Diversity is fantastic, but it's like throwing a party with everyone invited but forgotten to put on the music. The real deal is creating a culture of inclusion. Let’s recall the time our diverse team brainstormed – the mix of perspectives was like a cultural potluck. Inclusion nurtures innovation, creativity, and a sense of belonging that diversity alone can't achieve.

In a Nutshell: The struggle's real, but guess what? So is our power to overcome. Let's rise above these barriers, armed with wit, wisdom, and a sprinkle of self-love. Together, let's create awareness, foster inclusion, and change the narrative, one victory at a time.

Do share which bias did you face and how you overcame it.

PS: While this article is in a lighter vein and does not address the issues in great detail, it is meant to serve as a talking point and create more awareness. Because awareness is the first step in bringing about change.

Hashtags: #BiasBusters #InclusionRevolution #EmpowerWomen #BreakingBarriers #Empowerment #DiversityAndInclusion #NavigatingBiases #WomenInBusiness #ChallengeAccepted #SmashTheCeiling #leanin #womensupportingwomen #breakthebias #unconsciousbias #diversity&inclusion #diversityequityinclusion