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The Subtle Barriers to Career Growth

How Women Rise, co-authored by leadership expert Sally Helgesen and renowned executive coach Marshall Goldsmith, dives deep into a critical truth: success isn’t only about skills, performance, or ambition—it’s also about overcoming habits that quietly sabotage your progress.

While men and women both face workplace challenges, Helgesen’s research shows that women often encounter a unique set of roadblocks—some rooted in social conditioning, others in self-imposed behaviors. These aren’t glaring mistakes; they’re subtle patterns that may have helped early in your career but start holding you back as you aim for leadership roles or bigger opportunities.

The book identifies 12 specific habits that can stall advancement, then provides practical strategies to replace them with behaviors that open doors to promotions, raises, and leadership positions. It’s not just a critique—it’s a step-by-step playbook for building confidence, visibility, and influence in any professional environment.

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Top 10 Lessons from How Women Rise

1. Don’t Rely Solely on Hard Work

Consistently delivering high-quality results is vital, but without visibility and advocacy, your achievements may go unnoticed.

2. Own Your Success

Many women downplay their wins to avoid seeming boastful. Learn to confidently communicate your achievements without apology.

3. Stop Overvaluing Expertise

Being the go-to expert feels safe, but it can also trap you in the same role. Leaders are valued for vision and delegation, not just technical skill.

4. Let Go of Perfectionism

Striving for flawlessness slows progress and causes burnout. Deliver excellence, but know when “good enough” is strategically better.

5. Expand Your Network Intentionally

Don’t just maintain close, trusted relationships—seek out influencers, decision-makers, and allies beyond your immediate circle.

6. Ask for What You Deserve

Waiting to be noticed or rewarded often leads to missed opportunities. Advocate for raises, promotions, and stretch assignments.

7. Speak Up in the Moment

Avoid holding back opinions or ideas for fear of judgment. Your voice gains authority when it’s heard consistently.

8. Don’t Let Loyalty Hold You Hostage

Staying in one role or with one leader out of comfort or loyalty can stunt growth. Be willing to move when opportunity calls.

9. Embrace Strategic Risk-Taking

Avoiding risk feels safe but limits upward mobility. Take calculated risks that position you for leadership and visibility.

10. Build an Internal Brand

You’re not just an employee—you’re a brand. Shape how colleagues and leaders perceive you by aligning your actions with your career goals.

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Why This Book Matters

Helgesen’s work resonates because it doesn’t simply tell women to “act like men” to get ahead—it addresses the distinct challenges and behaviors that can unintentionally cap potential. By replacing limiting habits with intentional, growth-oriented actions, women can not only reach higher roles but also thrive once they get there.

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Final Takeaway

How Women Rise is both a mirror and a roadmap—it shows you where you might be holding yourself back and gives you the tools to break through.

Nick-style closing line:
“Your next promotion isn’t just about proving your value—it’s about removing the habits that hide it.”