Why Women Leaders Underestimate Themselves And How To Change That

Bernice Gordon & WBN News Langley August 25, 2025

Every smart, capable woman leader has felt it: that nagging uncertainty whispering Am I really earning this? This isn’t self-doubt, it’s systematic underestimation. Many women measure up to the top only to discount their success, fearing they’re not enough or that credit means bragging. Yet this pattern isn’t personal it’s structural, and recognizing it is the first step toward real change.

Root causes run deep. Sociocultural conditioning teaches women to value humility and doubt self-promotion. Implicit bias reinforces perfectionism, women feel they must outdo to be seen, so they shy from claiming wins. Meanwhile, leadership archetypes are usually male. Women adapting feel like outsiders in rooms they deserve to lead. And without vocal peer networks and mentors, that lone wolf journey amplifies isolation.

So, how do we break this cycle?

• Reframe confidence as action, not emotion. Confidence grows when we "act as if" and accumulate proof through small wins, not from waiting to feel worthy first.
• Name your accomplishments out loud. Share achievements factually and often. Let colleagues and your future self see what you've done.
• Lean into mentorship and sponsorship. Seek those who not only guide but will champion you and loudly.
• Normalize self-advocacy. In performance reviews, team discussions, and promotions, stating your vision and value isn’t boldness; it’s clarity.
• Celebrate progress, not perfection. Leadership isn’t about flawless performance, but consistent growth. Give yourself permission to learn out loud.

By recognizing the cultural and organizational forces that drive self-doubt, women leaders can flip the narrative. They belong at the helm not because they chased perfection, but because they’re powerful, purposeful, and real.

Bernice Gordon | CEO – Coaching with Bernice
📧 Email: bernicegordon@shaw.ca
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernicegordon

TAGS:
#Women Leadership #Self Confidence #Leadership Development #WBN News Langley #Bernice Gordon