You Don't Have to Ask Permission to Invest in Your Professional Growth

In this newsletter I'm empowering women to invest in their personal growth. Interested? Read on...

The HR field is heavily dominated by women for many reasons.

Gender stereotyping is one of them and is often perpetuated by society which associates women with nurturing, emotional intelligence, and people-oriented skills.

Historically, certain professions and industries have been perceived as more suitable for women, such as caregiving and administrative roles. Human resources, with its focus on interpersonal skills, communication, and empathy, may have been seen as aligning with these perceived "feminine" qualities, in turn leading to a higher proportion of women in the field.

As a woman, I would agree that our skills do naturally align to HR, as we tend to excel in areas such as communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence, which are essential for building relationships, resolving conflicts, and supporting employee well-being.

Yet, I can’t help feeling that as women, when it comes to our professional careers in this field, we aren’t always taken as seriously as we should be, and that once we qualify our investment in our own growth and development professionally sometimes takes a back seat.

I witness it often when I’m talking to female HR professionals about my coaching and mentoring programmes, with one stand out objection that pertains to many a conversation about whether they will take the leap and invest in working with me or not, and that is…The feeling that they need to ask permission!

Today I’m here to put pay to that absurd notion! ?

As women we possess an incredible drive and ambition to excel in our careers and make significant strides in our professional lives, whether it's advancing our own small business or climbing the corporate ladder. Fundamentally we understand the importance of investing in our own growth and development, however far too often we find ourselves seeking permission from others, particularly our partners or spouses, before making crucial decisions about our professional training and development.

But here's the truth of the matter; you don't have to ask permission!

Let’s consider the following scenario for a second.

You’re a HR Professional who has hit a ceiling in your professional career. You’re feeling unfulfilled, uninspired, unmotivated and living your life by someone else’s agenda.

You decide that you want to change something about this picture, so you tentatively start searching on the internet and you come across an event or a webinar, which offers you the opportunity to learn more about how you can break away from your current role and professional existence and move into a new exciting chapter in your career, where you can make your own decisions and do something in your work which feels of more value.

You attend and you feel a rush of excitement and possibility. You’re eyes have been opened to the possibilities of going it alone. You make the decision that you are going to make a drastic change, and pivot in your career, and it just so happens you have been handed a golden opportunity to make your dreams come true in the form of a proven training, coaching and mentorship programme to help you start your own business!

You love the sound of it. You can really see yourself learning and growing and taking positive action, but there’s one catch! It requires some investment. Not a huge amount, but still there is a financial consideration.

You can afford it. The investment makes total sense, but…

"What will my 'other half' say?"

"I'd better ask permission!"

And that my friend is often how it goes.?

Many women may find themselves grappling with a mix of emotions when it comes to making such decisions. They may feel a sense of hesitation, questioning whether they have the right to make decisions about their own professional growth. Doubt may creep in, causing them to second-guess their capabilities and the validity of their ambitions. The fear of being judged or met with resistance can create a barrier to taking decisive action.

However, it's important to recognise that these emotions are rooted in societal expectations and outdated norms.

By acknowledging these feelings and challenging the notion that they need permission to invest in themselves, women can break free from these constraints and embrace new and exciting opportunities.

Believe in yourself and recognise that you possess the knowledge, skills, and passion to make informed decisions about your professional growth. Your partner or spouse may have valuable insights, but ultimately, you are the expert on your own goals and aspirations. Trust that you have what it takes to invest wisely in your career.

So instead of asking permission. Take the following approach instead

Understand the Financial Justification

While financial considerations are essential, don't let them be the sole determining factor in your decision-making process. Instead, focus on understanding the long-term benefits of investing in your professional training. Consider the potential for increased earnings, expanded career opportunities, and enhanced skills that can propel you forward. Recognise that by investing in yourself, you're investing in your future success. And remember you don’t need permission!

Communicate Your Vision

Open and honest communication is key when discussing your professional growth with your partner or spouse. Clearly articulate your goals, explain the specific benefits of your chosen training program, and share your excitement about the potential outcomes. By presenting a well-reasoned case, you're more likely to gain support and understanding. But remember you aren’t looking for their permission!

Seek a Collaborative Approach

Rather than seeking permission, strive for a collaborative decision-making process. Engage in open discussions where you and your partner or spouse can weigh the pros and cons together. Emphasise that your commitment to professional growth will benefit not only yourself but also your relationship and family. Encourage them to share their concerns, and work together to find solutions that address them. But remember you aren’t looking for permission!

Embrace Financial Independence

Financial independence is an essential aspect of personal empowerment. As women, it is crucial to have control over our finances, as it allows us to make decisions that align with our career goals. By maintaining financial independence, you gain the freedom to invest in your professional training without feeling the need to ask for permission.

Surround Yourself with Support

Building a network of supportive individuals who understand the importance of professional growth is invaluable. Seek out mentors, join professional communities, and connect with like-minded women who can provide guidance, motivation, and inspiration. Having a strong support system will reinforce your confidence in making decisions without constantly seeking external validation. These people will never expect you to seek permission.

To summarise, as women we have come a long way in breaking barriers and challenging societal norms. Yet, the idea that we must seek permission to invest in our own professional growth still lingers.

It's time to shatter that misconception and embrace our autonomy.

Remember, you don't have to ask permission to invest in yourself and your career. Believe in your abilities, understand the financial justification, communicate your vision, and seek a collaborative approach.

Embrace financial independence and surround yourself with a supportive network then trust your instincts, take the leap, and watch as your career and small business soar to new heights.

You have the power to shape your future; now go out there and make it happen!