Jackson Owago's Blog

How Women Leaders Can Set Boundaries Without Guilt Saying no doesn’t make you selfish—it makes you a better leader. Discover how to set boundaries that empower you and your team. Did you know that 71% of women feel guilty when they say no at work, even when they’re overwhelmed?  From societal expectations to workplace pressures, women are often conditioned to be accommodating, putting others’ needs before their own.  But here’s the truth: setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s essential for effective leadership. The fear of being seen as difficult or unapproachable can hold women back from enforcing boundaries, leading to burnout, resentment, and reduced productivity.  This post is your guide to setting boundaries confidently, without guilt, and becoming the leader you’re meant to be. Why Women Struggle with Setting Boundaries Women face unique challenges when it comes to setting boundaries: Societal Conditioning: From a young age, women are often taught to prioritize ot...

How Women Can Build Supportive Networks That Propel Them Forward Your network is your greatest asset. Today, we’ll explore the journey from being a mentee to becoming a mentor—and why embracing both roles is key to effective leadership. Did you know that 85% of jobs are filled through networking, yet women are 25% less likely than men to have access to senior leaders who can advocate for their career growth? Networking and mentorship aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re critical tools for breaking barriers and achieving leadership success. But for many women, building a strong professional network can feel daunting. Whether it’s imposter syndrome, lack of access, or uncertainty about where to start, the challenges are real.  This post is your roadmap to creating meaningful, supportive connections that will propel you forward and help others do the same. Why Networking & Mentorship Matter for Women Networking and mentorship are more than just buzzwords—they’re game-changers for car...

Women Can Lead Authentically Without Apologizing Did you know that 76% of women feel pressured to downplay their accomplishments to avoid being seen as “too assertive”? This phenomenon, often called the likeability trap, creates a psychological conflict for women in leadership: be respected or be liked, but rarely both. From softening their tone to over-apologizing, many women feel compelled to conform to outdated expectations of how a leader “should” act. But here’s the truth: authentic leadership isn’t about pleasing everyone—it’s about leading with confidence, clarity, and conviction. Here’s how to escape the likability trap, embrace your authentic self, and lead unapologetically.  Let’s dive in. Understanding the Likeability Trap The likeability trap is the double standard women face when they lead assertively. While decisive men are praised as strong leaders, decisive women are often labeled as “bossy” or “difficult.” Societal Expectations: Women are often socialized to be nu...