Women Are Rewriting the Leadership Playbook—Are You In?

For years, we’ve heard the same old story about leadership: It’s a man’s world, women have to work twice as hard, and if we want a seat at the table, we better be grateful for the scraps.

Yeah… not anymore.

Here’s the real story: By 2032, women will outnumber men in global leadership roles. This shift is already happening. It’s not a pipe dream, not a theory, and definitely not up for debate.

The question is: Will you be part of it?

This week on Possibilities with Monique de Maio, I sat down with Jackie Joy, executive coach and leadership strategist, who works closely with Dr. Don Barden—the expert tracking this leadership evolution through his research in Here Come the Girls.

If you’ve ever wondered when it will be “your time” to lead, this is it.

Why Women in Leadership Isn’t Just a “Nice to Have”

Let’s be clear: This isn’t about filling quotas. It’s about results.

Study after study proves that when women lead, businesses thrive.

• Companies with women in top leadership roles report higher profitability and innovation.
• Female-led teams have better collaboration, engagement, and employee satisfaction.
• Women leaders drive 3X revenue growth compared to their male counterparts.

The shift isn’t happening because the world suddenly decided to be fair. It’s happening because women bring a leadership style that works better in today’s business landscape.

Jackie said it best:

“This isn’t just about women stepping up. It’s about companies leveling up.”

And yet, so many women still hold back.

Why Aren’t More Women Already in Leadership?

Spoiler alert: It’s not because we aren’t capable.

Here’s the real issue:

• Lack of Sponsorship: Women don’t get the same executive backing as men.
• The Confidence Gap: We question our readiness, while men apply for roles they’re 60% qualified for.
• Old Narratives: The idea that success means choosing between career and family is outdated—but still lingers.

You don’t need permission. You don’t need more credentials. You don’t need to wait until you feel “ready.”

You need to step up and claim your space.

3 Power Moves to Step into Leadership with Confidence

1. Own Your Worth (and Charge Accordingly)

Women are conditioned to be humble, to wait our turn, to “prove” ourselves before asking for what we deserve.

Enough of that.

If you don’t know your value, why should anyone else?

• Stop downplaying your achievements.
• Stop letting imposter syndrome run the show.
• Stop waiting for someone to recognize your potential.

Own it. Speak it. Step into it.

2. Get a Sponsor, Not Just a Mentor

Mentors are great, but mentorship doesn’t get you promoted—sponsorship does.

• A mentor offers guidance.
• A sponsor puts your name in the right rooms.

If you’re serious about leveling up, find someone who will advocate for you when you’re not in the room. And when you get there? Pay it forward.

3. Get Comfortable with Discomfort

Jackie and I talked about this a lot: If you’re not uncomfortable, you’re not growing.

• That promotion you don’t feel “ready” for? Take it.
• That speaking opportunity that terrifies you? Say yes.
• That executive room that makes you feel like an outsider? Walk in anyway.

If you wait until you feel fully confident, you’ll be waiting forever.

The Future is Female. The Future is Now.

So here’s the question:

Are you going to lead—or just watch it happen?

What’s your next move?

✔ Step up and claim your leadership seat.
✔ Advocate for sponsorship and mentorship.
✔ Redefine success on your terms.

Women aren’t just coming for leadership roles—we’re taking them.

If you’re ready to make your move, listen to the full podcast episode for more strategies and insight

With clarity and action, 

Monique