Well-Behaved Women Rarely Make History

I’ve always been the kind of person to question authority. In second grade, my teacher Miss Norman called me a “talk-a-thon and distraction to the class.” Little did she know, I would carry that spirit of curiosity and challenge with me throughout my life. If fact it led me to a career as an award winning television journalist in my first career.

Early in my television career, I had the privilege of working alongside Terry Savage, a trailblazing financial columnist for the Chicago Sun-Times and the first woman on the Chicago Board Options Exchange. Terry, a dynamic force, mentored me, imparting invaluable lessons on achieving success as a businesswoman and the importance of boldness and courage in challenging conventions. She shattered norms and crafted new paths.

The phrase "Well-behaved women rarely make history" is more than just an expression; it's a rallying cry for those ready to defy the norm, to shake up the status quo, and to leave an indelible mark on the world.

Unleashing Your Inner Trailblazer

Trailblazers dare to be different, to speak out, and to challenge the systems they were born into. They aren't afraid to leverage their unique perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences to make significant strides in their respective fields.

Boldness Breeds Change

Change doesn’t come from blending in. Throughout history, certain women have risen to confront challenges, break barriers, and inspire generations. Their lives and achievements serve as powerful narratives of change and empowerment, defining moments in history and reshaping societal landscapes.

Angela Davis stands as a formidable figure in social activism and academic thought. Her involvement in the civil rights movement and her subsequent work as a scholar highlight her unwavering commitment to justice and equality.

Greta Thunberg, a beacon of environmental activism, has mobilized millions to demand urgent climate action. From her solitary school strike for climate to leading global climate strikes, Thunberg’s fearless advocacy has pressured leaders to acknowledge the impending climate crisis. Her impact has been profound, sparking a youth-led movement that insists on accountability and sustainable change.

Shirley Chisholm broke new ground as the first African American woman elected to the United States Congress and the first to seek a major party's nomination for President. Her bold campaign slogan, "Unbought and Unbossed," encapsulates her trailblazing spirit. Chisholm’s work in Congress advocated for education reform and healthcare, laying a foundation for future generations of leaders who continue to fight for equality and justice.

Malala Yousafzai’s journey from a young girl advocating for education in Pakistan to becoming the youngest Nobel Prize laureate is a testament to the power of courage and resilience. After surviving an assassination attempt by the Taliban, Malala’s voice grew stronger, advocating for girls’ education globally. Her story continues to inspire young women to fight for their right to education and to voice their beliefs boldly.

Indira Gandhi, as India’s first and only female Prime Minister, left a complex legacy marked by significant political achievements and challenges. Her leadership during the Green Revolution transformed India into a self-sufficient agricultural nation, while her tenure saw both profound advancements and controversies, reflecting the multifaceted nature of political leadership.

Kamala Harris, as the first female, first Black, and first South Asian Vice President of the United States, embodies a new era of political leadership. Her career, marked by a commitment to justice and equality, has shattered glass ceilings and set new precedents, encouraging a diverse generation to engage in public service and leadership.

These trailblazers have each contributed uniquely to their fields, leaving legacies that resonate well beyond their immediate spheres of influence. Their stories are a call to action, inspiring individuals to pursue change, challenge norms, and continue the fight for a more equitable and just society. Each has, in their own way, redefined what it means to be a leader, a creator, and a catalyst for change.They didn’t wait for permission to create change; they forged ahead because they understood that their differences were not a hindrance, but a strength. Challenging the status quo demands boldness and resilience. It requires a vision not just for what is, but for what could be. It’s about fostering innovation and igniting progress by daring to think differently.

Harnessing the Power of Uniqueness

Stand out and make yourself seen and heard. It's crucial to embrace your uniqueness. Know your power and value as a woman. Be fearless in making your reality and sharing it with others. Your voice matters, and your perspective is invaluable.

Surround yourself with a supportive network of mentors and allies who believe in your vision. They are the ones who will encourage you and open doors that might otherwise remain closed. Real-world challenges and opportunities await those who dare to lead differently. With keen self-awareness and the courage to make bold decisions, you too can become a force for change.

Call to Action

In a world that often rewards conformity, it’s time we unapologetically advocate for embracing uniqueness and challenging norms. Dare to be different. Be true to yourself. Because it's those who defy the odds, who refuse to settle, and who challenge the status quo that often make history.

Now, I invite you to think about how you can make an impact. What norms can you challenge today? What bold step can you take to create change? Let's start a conversation about it—and more importantly, let's act on it.