Redefining What's Possible in Times of Disruption

Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.—quote widely attributed to Marilyn Monroe

Disruption is uncomfortable. It upends what we know, forces change, and leaves us with two choices: wait for stability to return or step forward and lead.

Moments of uncertainty—economic downturns, technological shifts, social upheavals—are undoubtedly challenges, yet they serve as inflection points for reinvention. The leaders who adapt and embrace these shifts redefine what’s possible.

AI is one of those defining shifts. It’s transforming industries, reconfiguring leadership, and rewriting the rules of business. For those willing to lean in, AI is an opportunity to lead the way.

Disruption as an Inflection Point for Leadership

When everything is in flux, people look for direction. They seek leaders who provide clarity and purpose:

• Here’s where we’re going.
• Here’s why it matters.
• Here’s how we’ll get there—together.

History proves that moments of upheaval spark transformation. The Industrial Revolution reshaped economies. The internet changed how we connect. Digital transformation redefined how we work. Today, AI is redefining leadership itself. Seizing these opportunities requires the courage to step forward despite uncertainty.

You cannot swim for new horizons until you have courage to lose sight of the shore.—quote widely attributed to William Faulkner

We may not be able to control political and economic chaos, but we can embrace AI. Those who learn it, adapt to it, and lead with it will play a role in shaping the future.

For women in leadership, this is a unique moment. AI is shifting traditional structures and challenging outdated norms, creating space for diverse voices and perspectives. This year’s International Women’s Day theme—"Redefine Possible"—couldn’t be more fitting. As AI redefines industries, we have the chance to redefine leadership along with it.

AI as an Enabler

AI is transforming industries, forcing organizations to rethink how they operate. Some will freeze, waiting for things to ‘return to normal,’ while others will embrace the change. During periods of disruption, what was once "impossible" becomes essential:

• Hybrid and remote work were resisted for years—until a pandemic made them indispensable.
• Traditional banking models held strong—until fintechs revolutionized financial services.
• Large companies avoided AI—until competition made rapid adoption necessary.

AI accelerates problem-solving, decision-making, and innovation. It processes massive amounts of data, identifies patterns, and provides insights that humans might miss. Leaders who integrate AI into their decision-making will be able to move faster and smarter.

However, AI is only as effective as the people guiding it. That’s why diverse leadership is crucial. AI-driven decisions shaped by broad perspectives help avoid bias and drive inclusive progress.

AI’s Role in Disrupting Traditional Leadership Models

One of the biggest shifts AI is driving is in leadership itself. AI is shaking things up across every industry, and that means there’s room for new voices—if we step up.

• In education, AI-powered learning platforms are accelerating professional growth.
• In healthcare, AI is revolutionizing diagnostics and treatment planning.
• In business, AI is enhancing decision-making and redefining strategic leadership.
• In finance, AI is improving fraud detection and risk management.
• In creativity, AI is transforming marketing, design, and content creation.

Most importantly, AI can dismantle bias in hiring, promotions, and leadership development. By providing data-driven insights, it can help underrepresented leaders get noticed, recognized, and elevated.

This is a window of opportunity—if we step up and claim it.

Modern AI Tools That Can Accelerate Career Growth

You don’t have to be a data scientist to integrate AI into your workflow. Some of the most useful AI tools are simple and can make a huge difference in how effectively you lead.

• Generative AI for content creation & communication: Jasper , Surfer SEO, Anyword —Facilitate brainstorming, writing, and refining messaging.
• AI-powered analytics for decision-making: Microsoft Power BI , Tableau , Qlik — Provide market trends, business intelligence, and performance insights.
• Automation for efficiency: Zapier , Make — Automate repetitive tasks to focus on high-value work.
• AI-driven networking & learning: LinkedIn AI recommendations, 360Learning , Udemy — Find mentors, create skills frameworks, build relationships, and keep up with industry trends.

Women who integrate AI into their work gain a competitive advantage. AI-powered insights help optimize workflow, increase influence, and lead more effectively.

Steps We Can Take to Lead in the AI Era

Disruption creates momentum for change. When everything is shifting, people are more open to new ways of thinking and working. This is the perfect moment to step forward and lead.

How to seize this opportunity:

• Get comfortable with AI. You don’t need to code; however, you do need to use it. Try free AI courses like Google AI Essentials or experiment with tools like ChatGPT and Power BI.
• Make data-driven decisions. Apply AI. Leverage AI-powered analytics tools and integrate AI insights into your leadership strategy.
• Lean into AI leadership. Share what you’re learning with your teams and colleagues, introduce AI-powered efficiencies, and establish yourself as an AI-forward leader.
• Advocate for responsible AI. Get involved in discussions on AI fairness, ethics, and bias mitigation. Be a voice in shaping the future of AI governance.
• Expand your network. Leadership is not a solo journey. Join AI-focused communities, find mentors, and collaborate with others who are embracing this shift. Consider joining Google’s Women Techmakers program.

In stable times, resistance to change is high. In uncertain times, the fear of the unknown often outweighs attachment to the past. When everything is shifting, people are more open to new ways of thinking and working.

This is a powerful inflection point for women to introduce new ideas, launch new initiatives, and inspire teams to embrace transformation. It’s a time to rally people around a bigger purpose and reshape how things are done.?

Final Thoughts

Women, this is our moment.

Periods of chaos define leadership legacies. Those who thrive don’t wait for stability to return; rather, they shape the future themselves. The strongest teams, businesses, and innovations are built by leaders who step up when others hesitate.

AI is transforming industries, and we have a chance to redefine leadership in the process. Those who take action now will help shape the future.

Between March and April, Women Techmakers celebrate International Women's Day with the theme, “Redefine Possible,” by participating in global events designed to educate, inspire, and connect you with your tech community. "Redefine Possible" is exactly what this disruptive moment in time is about. We have a chance to redefine leadership along with it.?

This isn’t a time to play it safe. It’s time to lead. It’s time to redefine what’s possible. These times of disruption will change leadership. What opportunities do you see to Redefine Possible? How do you see AI redefining leadership? What steps are you taking to embrace this transformation?