As TIME Magazine so powerfully explained early this morning in announcing their Person of the Year issue, women are the future. Between the world changing #MeToo campaign to the scores of innovative women influencing the business world, it’s no secret that the “fairer” sex is done with that ridiculous label and has its sight set on making the world a better place. And that’s something we can all get on board with.
While the gender gap is still outrageously present in business, there are many powerful women with powerful positions in some of the most successful companies in the world. If you’re in need of some female inspiration today, take a look at some of their most influential quotes below:
Kathleen Murphy, president of Personal Investing at Fidelity Investments
“Just go for it. Too often, women have a confidence gap that makes them pause and slow down while men dive in and learn as they go. Just go for it!”
Indra Nooyi, CEO of PepsiCo
“As a leader, I am tough on myself and I raise the standard for everybody; however, I am very caring because I want people to excel at what they are doing so that they can aspire to be me in the future.”
Sheryl Sandberg, COO of Facebook
“Always take on new challenges—even if you are not sure you are completely ready.”
Karen Lynch, president of Aetna
“When I was being considered for a senior role, I was told on an evaluation to avoid wearing pink because it made me look too ‘girlish’… Indirectly, I was told my femininity was a barrier. Because of my outward appearance, they couldn’t see my internal strength. Regardless, I fought back and got the job. Ever since then, I’ve made it a point to wear pink.”
Mary Barra, chairman and CEO of General Motors
“Don’t cut off your career branches too early. Don’t step away from your career based on what ‘might’ happen.”
Rosalind Brewer, president and CEO of Sam’s Club
“You can and should set your own limits and clearly articulate them. This takes courage, but it is also liberating and empowering, and often earns you new respect.”
Susan Wojcicki, CEO of YouTube, Google/Alphabet
“Speak up. Don’t be afraid to say what’s on your mind or ask for what you want.”
Margaret Keane, president and CEO of Synchrony Financial
“Life happens and the conflicting demands of work and home often change your ‘original’ path. Lateral movement, or even moves to smaller positions, can differentiate skills and experience in ways that eventually lead to bigger roles.”
Geisha Williams, president and CEO of the Pacific Gas and Electric Company
“I never thought of myself as a woman leader or a Latina leader; I just thought of myself as a leader.”
Cathy Engelbert, CEO of Deloitte
“Raise your hand, take risks, and don’t fear failure—it’s one of the biggest impediments to success.”
Michele Buck, president and CEO of Hershey
“Make your life work for you—you can have a fulfilling career and be an amazing mother.”
Ginni Rometty, chairman, president, and CEO of IBM
“Be prepared to spot growth opportunities when they present themselves—because they are the key learning opportunities. You’ll know because they make you uncomfortable, and your initial impulse may be that you’re not ready. But remember: Growth and comfort never co-exist.”
Amy Hood, EVP and CFO of Microsoft
“You won’t likely have the same plan in a few years that you have today. Life and priorities change—and so will your choices.”
Ruth Porat, SVP and CFO of Google/Alphabet
“Make sure you’re working for someone confident who is willing to take risks on you, gives you stretch opportunities, and is there to back you if things get tough. And do the same for people on your team.”
Ursula Burns, CEO of Xerox
“Ninety percent of this stuff is just not that serious, we just get crazy about it.”
Flickr / TechCrunch