3 Surprising Ways Women Miss Out On Opportunities And What To Do Instead

How many times have you seen someone less qualified take advantage of an opportunity that you considered but ultimately decided that it wasn't right for you?

If you're a woman, then your answer is likely, "too many to count". 

Women are statistically less likely than their male colleagues to be promoted, receive equal pay for equal work, and have a higher rate of burnout. 

Although it may seem unfair and like the gender gap is insurmountable at times, there are 3 surprising ways that women miss out on opportunities for advancement. 

 1. Viewing guidelines as if they were rules

One definition of a rule is "the normal or customary state of things" and an individual or company's intention or expectation is key. One person may view something as a rule, and another will have a different viewpoint altogether. 

Following the rules is normally seen as a desirable trait, but discernment and flexibility can be more important.

Your personal definition of what's allowed or appropriate may be sabotaging you from pursuing opportunities that others would say that you're well qualified for and would be a great fit. 

For example, when applying for a job, a woman is less likely to submit a resume or application unless 100% of the requirements are met whereas a man will look at the same requirements and apply if most are met but not necessarily all of them.

Allow yourself to consider the possibility of a positive outcome and pursue whatever opportunity that interests you. 

2. Imposter Syndrome

 Many women feel like they're unworthy, unqualified, and that their success or accomplishments are due to stroke of luck or an absolute fluke. Despite being wildly qualified and doing amazing things, they feel like they're a fraud and will be discovered at any moment.

Then, they'll be shunned and their reputations ruined. 

This is a subconscious emotional burden that can lead to anxiety, missed opportunities and a lack of self-promotion. If you don't believe in yourself, then how can others believe in you?

If you have imposter syndrome, then it's important to recognize and celebrate the evidence of your success. You wouldn't have gotten as far as you have if you weren't worthy, deserving, and qualified.

Having faith in yourself and a positive mindset can help you recognize and accept opportunities that the fear-based part of you would pass over. 

3. A fear of failure and taking risks

The most successful people have learned to adopt a growth mindset, a positive outlook on failure, and accept that risks are a part of life. 

Compared to men, women tend to view any failure as a personal failure rather than just an unfavorable outcome.

 This can negatively affect a woman's confidence and self-esteem. Plus, it can make them even more risk-adverse in the future. 

Adopting a growth mindset means looking at failure much like an experiment. You tried a particular action that yielded an undesirable outcome. This is valuable data! Not only do you have evidence of what didn't work, but it can lead you to discovering a much better outcome. 

Taking calculated risks, developing a healthier view on failure, and detaching your worth as a person from the outcome of your actions will help you become more confident and willing to pursue opportunities. 

 Learning to recognize and embrace opportunities is a valuable skill and a component of growth.

By working on your confidence, strategizing your next steps, and being open to change, you can achieve your goals in the best way possible. 

If you'd like to schedule a complimentary consultation about how to balance leadership and life, then schedule your appointment HERE. 

April Darley is a Lifestyle and Leadership Advisor who specializes in helping innovative thinkers achieve their goals without sacrificing their health, wealth, and freedom. Through a combination of techniques, you'll learn how to balance leadership and life while developing a growth mindset.