Why do ambitious women have flat heads? Dame Stephanie Shirley

 Surround yourself with first class people and people you like, choose your partner very very carefully.

Successful women are flat at top, because of constant tapping - with appreciation for well done, and long legs to walk away from the kitchen sink. 

There is beauty in work, if we enjoy and do it humility. We live our life forward. Welcome change. 

Questions to ask yourself before you lead a discussion:

In the spirit of fostering dynamic conversations in which all voices are respected and heard, here ar questions to consider before you lead a discussion on this idea:

1. What is your comfort level or prior experience with this topic?

2. What is your comfort level or prior experience facilitating a conversation with other people on this topic?

3. What are your hopes for the outcome of the conversation — both for yourself and for others involved?

4. Likewise, what are your concerns?

5. What resources in your organization are available to help you have a successful conversation? If you think you need additional resources, how will you seek them out?

6. What is the ideal group size for this conversation?

7. How well do participants already know each other? What is the level of engagement and trust of this group? What level of engagement or trust do they have in your organization?

8. What is the ideal setting and context for this conversation?

Reminders

• You don’t have to be an expert on a topic to lead a discussion! Sharing with the group up front that you are there to listen and facilitate (more than contribute) helps level the playing field.

• Don’t shy away from discomfort.

• Recognize that there’s no one right way to participate. Instead of talking, some participants may choose to take notes and reflect on the discussion afterwards, and that’s OK.

• Avoid singling anyone out: no one should be expected to represent a group or idea.

Setting up the conversation

• Welcome the group and acknowledge participants’ shared purpose.

• Help create a safe space by agreeing to shared values and group norms. Here’s language you can use as inspiration:

 “The spirit of this discussion is one that values curiosity, debate, inclusion and impact. As a group, we’ll ensure everyone can participate in the way that is meaningful and comfortable for them, while remaining present, and showing respect.”

• You can set ground rules to help put these norms into action. For example:

- Let’s try to stick to “I” statements.

- All contributions will be valued, and no one will be called out.

- Everyone can decide what participation looks like to them (for example, by taking notes  and reflecting individually).