It’s been more than 40 years…
…. when Marjorie Hansen Shaevitz delves into the challenges women face when striving to excel in all aspects of their lives. Her insights are still relevant today, especially for women in corporate environments balancing multiple roles. Here’s a summary of her 11 key recommendations, offering guidance on how to navigate the pressures of being a « superwoman » without burning out.
Realize the pressure to be a « perfect woman »
Shaevitz identifies societal pressures that push women to be perfect both professionally and personally, often leading to emotional and physical exhaustion. Awareness of this unrealistic expectation is the first step to overcoming it.
Accept Imperfection
Perfection is an impossible standard to uphold. Shaevitz encourages women to embrace their imperfections, recognizing that balance and fulfillment come from accepting themselves as they are, flaws and all.
Prioritize and Set Boundaries
Focus on what truly matters. By setting clear boundaries, learning to delegate, and confidently saying no when necessary, women can protect their energy and avoid overextending themselves.
Take Care of Yourself
Self-care is essential. Shaevitz emphasizes the importance of prioritizing physical, emotional, and mental well-being through activities like relaxation, exercise, meditation, or anything else that brings joy and reduces stress.
Seek Support
No one has to go it alone. Turning to friends, family, or colleagues for support can ease the load and offer much-needed perspective during difficult times.
Build Self-Confidence
Women should continually work on boosting their confidence in their abilities. Shaevitz highlights self-esteem as a key tool in combatting the pressures of the “superwoman syndrome.”
Find Balance
A successful life is about balancing the professional with the personal. Women need to give equal importance to their careers, family, relationships, and personal interests without feeling guilty about not excelling in all areas simultaneously.
Practice Gratitude
Recognizing the positives in life is crucial. Shaevitz encourages women to appreciate the small wins and be grateful for what they’ve accomplished, no matter how minor it may seem.
Build Resilience
Life’s setbacks are inevitable. Shaevitz advocates for developing resilience, learning from failures, and continuing to pursue goals even when challenges arise.
Focus on the Present
Instead of dwelling on past regrets or future worries, Shaevitz encourages women to live fully in the present. Being mindful of the current moment brings clarity and reduces unnecessary stress.
Cultivate Positive Relationships
The quality of personal and professional relationships profoundly impacts overall happiness. Shaevitz stresses the importance of nurturing healthy, supportive connections.
Learn to Let Go
We can’t control everything. Shaevitz advises women to let go of their need for control over things outside their influence and focus instead on what they can change.
Try my Super Women check up tool
Yes, The Superwoman Syndrome was published over 40 years ago, and somehow its crazy to see that we are still in the same place… more or less. Shaevitz’s wisdom still resonates today. These principles continue to be reflected in modern self-development programs for women, including my Life Work Brilliance program (in french ), which integrates many of these timeless strategies for balancing ambition and well-being.
Check up Tool
Initiate your self exploration with my XLS chart that will illuminate your route to achieving your objectives and advancing towards your personal development.
Check each item and ask yourself : in this weak or strong right now in my life? Abd put a score on how you feel.
The recipe to overcome these symptoms may sound simple. However, having the support of a friend or a coach can guide you to your destination without the frustration or discouragement of doing it alone.
Would you like to explore how you step away from superwoman and step into your Brilliance?
Book a discovery call today.
