Reclaiming Space as a Leader – Stop Shrinking and Lead

Reclaiming Space as a Leader: Why Women Still Shrink in Leadership Settings

For years, I mastered the art of making myself small.
Not because I wanted to — but because I thought I had to.

I’d sit at the edge of the table, speak softly, hold back my ideas — afraid of being “too much.”
I watched opportunities pass, thinking: Better not stand out. Better not upset anyone.

This isn’t just my story. It’s a pattern many women face in boardrooms, meetings, and leadership spaces still dominated by men. Reclaiming space as a leader starts by recognizing these patterns — and choosing to break them.

Early Lessons on Power and Respect

Growing up, I saw women objectified — even by those closest to me.
Later, as an actress, I watched colleagues endure harassment in silence because “that’s how the industry works.”

I stayed quiet, too — and I regret it.

Reading Lean In in 2014 was a wake-up call: we can’t wait for permission to speak up. Reclaiming space as a leader means taking ownership of your voice, even when it feels risky.

When Visibility Feels Risky — and Necessary

Even in corporate strategy roles, I faced bias: presenting projects while someone’s gaze lingered on my chest instead of my arguments.

I once asked a male colleague to speak on my behalf — just to get the project approved. That experience taught me: staying silent doesn’t protect you. It erases you.

The turning point came in a high-stakes meeting:
I deserve this space. This seat belongs to me. And if I don’t show up fully, who will?

That’s when I truly began reclaiming space as a leader — not just physically in the room, but in mindset and presence.

What Showing Up Means in Practice

Taking your rightful seat at the table — even if your voice shakes
Speaking clearly and confidently — because your ideas matter
Setting boundaries to protect your energy
Owning your presence — knowing “too much” is a myth

Reclaiming space as a leader isn’t about being louder; it’s about being intentional, visible, and unapologetically you.

Why Claiming Space Is Radical

When women lead unapologetically, dynamics shift.
It changes energy in the room. It gives permission for others to do the same.
And it reshapes company culture — one meeting, one voice at a time.

Navigating Difficult Personalities

I’ve worked with colleagues who were brilliant yet exhausting — dominating conversations or flaunting hierarchy.

Instead of shrinking, I learned to interrupt with respect (“Great point — here’s my perspective…”) and redirect conversations back to facts. This built mutual respect and improved collaboration — even with challenging personalities.

The Four-Ears Model: Communicate With Intention

Friedemann Schulz von Thun’s model shows every message carries four layers:

Fact — the pure content
Self-Revelation — what it says about the sender
Relationship — how they view you or the dynamic
Appeal — what they want from you

Recognizing these layers helps you stay composed, respond intentionally, and avoid taking things personally — especially in high-pressure leadership settings.

How to Start Reclaiming Space Today

Notice when and why you shrink
Use grounding exercises to center yourself before speaking
Practice showing up in small ways — a comment in a meeting, a clear email
Celebrate every moment you claim your voice

Final Thought

Reclaiming space as a leader is authentic leadership. It’s choosing to be seen, heard, and valued — even when it feels uncomfortable.

If you’re ready to lead with clarity, presence, and confidence, let’s craft your strategy together.

Ready to Claim Your Space and Lead Authentically?

Book your free Clarity Call today — we’ll work together on your personal roadmap for reclaiming space as a leader, so you can walk into any room knowing your presence belongs there.Book your free Clarity Call — let’s craft your strategy to show up with presence and confidence, no matter the room you’re in.

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