Ah, here we are — back again, tea steaming, heart a little lighter, mind full of ideas.
After last week’s heavy truths about the unseen labour women carry in male-dominated spaces, I promised we’d turn towards something hopeful: how to navigate it all with grace, strategy, and self-respect.
So let’s talk solutions — practical, human-centred ones. Because change doesn’t come from grand gestures. It comes from small shifts done consistently.
🔹 Reclaim Your Narrative
Stop waiting for permission to be seen. Start crafting your story — clearly, confidently.
“I’m Priya, R&D Leader at PNDC, leading whole-energy systems innovation with a focus on hydrogen integration and decarbonisation.”
No apology. No “just” or “maybe”. Say it like you mean it. Then say it again — in meetings, emails, even casual chats.
And yes — include your title everywhere. Even if it feels awkward at first. You’re not being flashy; you’re setting boundaries.
🔹 Build Reputation Through Connection (Not Just Performance)
You don’t need to work in isolation. Seek out communities — through hobbies, school events, friends-of-friends. These informal networks often lead to real opportunities.
(As someone who missed this window early on… I’ve learned: connections aren’t just professional. They’re personal too. And that matters.)
🔹 Reframe Authority — Own It
That instinct to downplay? Let it go.
It’s okay to say “This project was led by my team — and I’m proud of what we achieved.”
It’s also okay to say, “I’ve worked in clean energy policy for 12 years because I believe deeply in the transition.”
Yes, confidence can be warm. Yes, warmth can be confident. You don’t have to choose between them. Try saying both:
“I’m so excited to collaborate with you — I’ve been working on similar challenges for over a decade.”
See how that works?
🔹 Share Credit & Celebrate Others
Don’t hoard praise. When someone does great work, notice it. Say thank you. Acknowledge it publicly.
And when others do the same for you? Accept it with grace — not guilt.
Because here’s a secret: appreciation is reciprocal. The more you give, the more you receive.
Plus — pat yourself on the back too. Weekly reflection helps: What went well? What could I improve? This isn’t ego — it’s self-awareness.
🔹 Navigate Bias With Calm Clarity
If someone says something off-putting (a joke, assumption, remark), take a breath. It’s valid that you felt it.
You don’t owe anyone an education — but if you want to respond, use gentle probing.
“That comment made me pause — what specifically did you mean?”
“Can you help me understand why you said that?”
“That’s not okay with me. I’d appreciate it if we could avoid that kind of language.”
In extreme cases? Write it down. Document it. Protect your peace. You’re not responsible for fixing bias — only for protecting your boundaries.
🔹 Break the ‘Masculinity Contest’ Culture
Notice the room: Who’s dominating conversations? Who’s avoiding eye contact? Who stays silent during jokes?
Actively listen. Invite quieter voices in. Challenge assumptions when they arise. A diverse team doesn’t just happen — it’s nurtured.
And finally… don’t wait for permission to lead.
Even in rooms where women are present, decision-making can still feel like a boys’ club. That’s why mentorship and sponsorship matter — and why sharing stories about marginalisation isn’t a weakness. It’s essential.
✨ The Takeaway
We aren’t broken for needing more support. We’re brilliant for recognising where systems fall short, and then choosing to step forward anyway.
So let’s stop pretending “just doing our jobs” is enough. Let’s start redefining success on our own terms:
With clarity. With courage. With kindness to ourselves.
Because thriving isn’t about shrinking to fit in.
It’s about building spaces where you don’t have to.
I’m so grateful this book exists — not because it gave me answers, but because it gave me permission to speak up, ask questions, and keep going.
As we wind down toward the holidays, I want to take a quiet moment to say thank you — not just for reading, but for being here.
Whether you’re sipping tea by the tree, wrapped up in a blanket with an audiobook, or chasing toddlers through snow-covered streets (yes, even in the UK!), I hope this time brings you peace, laughter, and moments that feel like home.
Thank you for sharing this journey with me — I’m so glad we’re doing it together.
Wishing you all the best over Christmas and into the New Year. May 2025 bring you courage, clarity, and kindness — both for yourself and others.
Until then, stay kind, keep growing, and never forget:
💬 “You belong here — without changing.”
If any of this resonated with you, please share your thoughts. What small shift will you make next week?
Until then,
Warmly,
Priya ✨