Redefining Success: Can Women Truly Have It All?

By Thrive Partners - putting expert coaching within reach

“Can women have it all?” It’s a question that has sparked endless debate, yet remains deeply personal and nuanced. At our latest EmpowerHER Panel Discussion, three exceptional female leaders tackled this very question, sharing their experiences and insights on navigating leadership, resilience, and balance in today’s demanding world.

The discussion featured:

• Nebel Crowhurst – Chief People Officer, Reward Gateway
• Larissa Harrison – HR & Transformation Leader, Evoke
• Helena Curtis – DEI Lead, Shawbrook Bank

Together, they explored how women in leadership can balance personal and professional identities while staying true to their values.

The Balancing Act: Leadership, Identity & Resilience

“Leadership isn’t about having it all at once. It’s about prioritising what matters in the moment and allowing yourself the grace to evolve.” – Helena Curtis

The panel opened with a powerful discussion on how women juggle multiple roles in both their personal and professional lives. Nebel Crowhurst reflected on the challenges of being a leader while managing family responsibilities:

“The expectation to be ‘always on’ can be overwhelming. But the key is to set boundaries and be intentional about where you invest your time and energy.”

The conversation shifted towards the resilience required to overcome workplace biases. Larissa Harrison shared her journey of breaking through barriers in male-dominated industries:

“You can’t wait for permission to take up space. You have to step forward with confidence, knowing that your perspective is valuable.”

Another critical theme was the role of social media and public perception. With increased scrutiny on female leaders, the panel agreed that resilience and self-awareness are essential.

“The narrative around women in leadership needs to change. We shouldn’t have to justify our choices – whether it’s focusing on career, family, or both.” – Nebel Crowhurst

5 Key Takeaways from the EmpowerHER Journey Panel

1. Define Your Own Version of ‘Having It All’ – Success looks different for everyone. Don’t measure your journey against external expectations.
2. Boundaries Are Your Best Friend – Protecting your time and mental well-being is crucial for sustained success.
3. Resilience is Built, Not Given – Every challenge is an opportunity to grow and redefine your leadership style.
4. Find Your Support System – Strong networks, both personally and professionally, make a significant difference.
5. Embrace Continuous Growth – Leadership is an evolving journey. Stay open to learning, adapting, and reinventing yourself.

About Thrive

At Thrive, we believe that personal growth drives professional success. As a leader in coaching and leadership development, we partner with organisations to unlock potential and foster resilience. Our tailored coaching programmes help individuals thrive in their roles while driving collective progress within their teams and organisations.

Thrive is more than a service; it’s a movement. With the right guidance and support, everyone has the power to lead, succeed, and create positive change.

Let’s #thrivetogether.

The Path Forward

The EmpowerHER Journey Panel reminded us that having it all is a personal and evolving concept. Whether it’s career, family, or a mix of both, the power lies in defining success on your own terms.

Want to hear the full discussion and gain deeper insights?

Click the below image to access the full panel interview and empower your own leadership journey.