Instead, I believe in gender equity.

Equality is about sameness—treating everyone exactly the same. 

Equity is about justice, fairness, and giving people what they actually need to succeed.

Think about this:

- Equality is giving everyone the same pair of shoes. 

- Equity is giving everyone a pair of shoes that actually fit.

Even as a women's leadership coach, I still wrestle with how to articulate my thoughts on these topics. It’s easy to label them as intimidating because, like many, I don’t want to say the wrong thing. Being on the International Women's Day panel pushed me to sit down, put my beliefs into words, and challenge my own assumptions. It made me realize that part of leadership isn’t just having the answers—it’s being willing to examine and rewrite the stories we tell ourselves about these subjects.

I Don’t Believe Men and Women Need to Be Equal to Achieve Progress

I believe we need to honor our differences.

Men are wonderful and important, and the patriarchy doesn’t just harm women—it harms men too. It enforces traditional gender roles where men feel pressure to be providers, suppress emotions, and work long hours at the expense of their well-being.

True gender equity isn’t about making everyone the same. It’s about recognizing and celebrating our strengths while removing unnecessary barriers.

Women shouldn’t have to emulate what has made men successful—like competitiveness and assertiveness—to lead. Instead, we should be valued for the unique leadership qualities we bring:

- Emotional intelligence 

- Long-term vision

- Collaboration 

I Believe in More Than Breaking Glass Ceilings

Yes, I believe in equal pay, meaningful parental leave for both parents, affordable childcare, and more women in leadership—but not just because we need to check a box.

We need more women in leadership because organizations thrive when diverse perspectives are valued.

I don’t believe in “down with the patriarchy.” I believe in evolving beyond outdated structures that limit everyone. Supporting women doesn’t have to mean undermining men.

Why Are Women Always "Too Much"?

When was the last time you heard a confident man being told he’s too much? Never. Because it doesn’t happen.

Yet women hear it all the time.
- If we’re emotional, we’re too much.
- If we’re confident, we’re too much.
- If we speak up, we’re too much.
- If we hold back, we’re not enough. 

I call BS on that.

It's Time To Rewrite Your Own Story

Stop downplaying your brilliance. 

Stop apologizing for your emotions. 

Catch yourself in the moments when you start to shrink.

Look yourself in the mirror and practice saying:
"Every bit of me is welcome.” 

Now that will start a revolution.

With Love,

Sarah x