These forward-thinking women who exemplify leadership during the pandemic provide an example and proof that if they can be effective leaders now, so can you!

12 Forward-Thinking Women Who Are Leading the Way!

“Finally I was able to see that if I had a contribution I wanted to make, I must do it, despite what others said. That I was OK the way I was. That it was all right to be strong.” ~ Wangari Maathai

We wish to say a huge and heartfelt “Thank You!” to the selfless women tirelessly working to help others during the coranvirus pandemic. World leaders, healthcare workers, and grocery clerks alike are putting themselves out there to be of service to their communities. What is happening today is in preparation for how our future will become.

It wasn’t that long ago women were expected to stay home and be protected by their man. They weren’t allowed to take an active role outside the home. This is no longer the case, and we are so grateful for that!

There’s no reason why a woman shouldn’t step into the role of leadership when she has developed the necessary skills and resources. And many women are accepting this challenge and excelling at it. Because women still feel they have to prove themselves, they often hold themselves to an even higher standard and this is resulting in exceptional work.

During this pandemic, women are leading the way, as they prove to be reliable and a great asset to our world. They are not equivocating, but are telling the truth about the virus. And they are responding decisively and with compassion. Look at the following examples of some women who are leading the way. (Statistics taken on May 11, 2020)

Tsai Ing-Wen, first female president of Taiwan, close to China, spearheaded a swift and successful defense to the pandemic, containing the virus to 440 confirmed cases and 7 deaths.
New Zealand’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, acted decisively and with compassion. The country still has only one Covid-19 death so far. Of course, being an island state is a distinct advantage, but effective leadership has played a strong role.
Germany, led by Chancellor Angela Merkel, (doctorate in quantum chemistry) has been hit hard by coronavirus, but it has an exceptionally low mortality rate of around 1.6%.
Denmark gives high marks to prime minister Mette Frederiksen for the way she has handled the COVID-19 crisis.
Norway’s prime minister, Erna Solberg, is using television to talk directly to her country’s children, and she also held a dedicated press conference where no adults were allowed. She responded to kids’ questions from across the country, taking time to explain why it was OK to feel scared.
Prime Minister of Iceland, Katrín Jakobsdóttir, is making sure ALL citizens have access to free coronavirus testing and has instituted a thorough tracking system so there’s been no shutting down of their schools.
Rep. Nita Lowey led the passage of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, for $5.2 million in federal funding to expand paid sick leave for some employees.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar led the introduction of the Keeping Critical Connections Act. To provide broadband internet access for rural families and students.
Reps. Susan W. Brooks and Anna G. Eshoo authored the Pandemic and All Hazards Preparedness and Advancing Innovation Act (PAHPA) which was signed into law June 24, 2019, long before this pandemic. Truly forward-thinking women!
Sens. Kamala Harris and Kirsten Gillibrant urged 36 large corporations to provide paid leave protections for all of their workers during the pandemic.

Are these women born to be exceptional? Only in the sense that they have developed great self-knowledge and confidence, and they have the courage to step forward. Yes it takes courage to be vulnerable enough to put yourself in the limelight for all to see your successes and missteps. We agree with Brené Brown who says,

“Courage starts with showing up and letting ourselves be seen.”

We are not saying that being a woman automatically makes these leaders better at handling a global pandemic. What we are saying is that women are using their power differently and effectively. They are examples we can all draw strength from, as we imitate their courage. They are proof that you can be a powerful leader, too.

Keep in mind what Margaret Wheatley said, “Leadership is a series of behaviors rather than a role for heroes.” Are you ready to step through the door to greater leadership responsibilities?

If you have self-talk telling you that “someone else can do it better” or “let someone else take the risks”, we challenge you. You can step up; you can make a difference. Join The Great Circle Community, we’re hosting. We’re inviting women from around the globe to explore big ideas and out-of-the-box creative solutions. Let’s get inspired and nourished as we feed our leader within! There is no cost to participate, please join us for our next call.