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By Kristie Clayton

Throughout history, women have broken barriers, defied expectations, and redefined leadership. From politics to business, science to sports, trailblazing women have not only led but inspired, innovated, and created lasting legacies. Their journeys offer invaluable lessons for today’s leaders—lessons that shape both personal and professional growth.

Let’s explore the key lessons we can learn from these remarkable women.

1. Embrace Resilience in the Face of Adversity

One of the most significant lessons we can learn from trailblazing women is resilience. Women like Rosa Parks, Maya Angelou, and Malala Yousafzai exemplify the power of standing strong in the face of adversity.

Rosa Parks, often regarded as the mother of the civil rights movement in the U.S., proved that one person’s courage can ignite monumental change. Despite immense pressure and backlash, she remained firm in her resolve, leading to a nationwide movement that transformed American society.

Resilience is a quality that all great leaders possess. Whether overcoming personal challenges or professional obstacles, leaders who persist in the face of adversity inspire others and create lasting change. Personally, I am still working on elevating my resilience. How about you?

Key Takeaway: Challenges are inevitable, but how we respond to them shapes our success. Resilience allows us to embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth.

2. Lead with Empathy and Compassion

I will never tire of encouraging leaders to tap into their emotional intelligence and lead with their hearts. Another lesson we can learn from trailblazing women is the importance of empathy and compassion in leadership.

Indra Nooyi, the former CEO of PepsiCo, led one of the world’s largest companies with a focus on both business success and corporate social responsibility. She believed in building relationships and connecting with employees on a personal level, which made her a beloved leader and fostered loyalty across the company.

Similarly, Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, is known for her compassionate leadership during times of crisis, including the Christchurch Mosque shootings and the COVID-19 pandemic. Her empathetic approach resonated with people worldwide and demonstrated that kindness and strength are not mutually exclusive.

Key Takeaway: Leading with empathy and compassion strengthens relationships, builds trust, and inspires others to do their best.

3. Prioritize Lifelong Learning

Many of history’s trailblazing women have demonstrated a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Never stop learning. I don’t. My team doesn’t. The best leaders never do.

Marie Curie, one of the most renowned scientists in history, broke new ground in chemistry and physics, proving that a thirst for learning leads to unprecedented discoveries. Her dedication to education led to her becoming the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person ever to win Nobel Prizes in two different sciences.

Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel laureate, has made it her life’s mission to advocate for girls’ education, showing the world the importance of ensuring access to learning opportunities for everyone, regardless of gender or background. Her courage and advocacy have sparked global movements for education reform.

Key Takeaway: Education is a lifelong journey that fuels innovation, problem-solving, and leadership growth. Leaders who continuously learn can make a broader impact.

4. Challenge the Norms and Pioneer New Paths

Trailblazing women—aka badasses—are often pioneers, challenging societal norms and paving the way for future generations.

Amelia Earhart defied expectations, becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Despite the risks, she pursued her dream, inspiring countless women to follow their passions without fear of failure or judgment.

Similarly, Sheryl Sandberg, the former COO of Facebook, broke barriers in the tech industry, a field historically dominated by men. She didn’t just reach the top—she used her platform to empower other women. Through her book Lean In, she encouraged women to take risks, challenge their limitations, and step into leadership roles.

Key Takeaway: Great leaders don’t wait for permission—they create their own path. By challenging existing norms and pushing boundaries, they open doors for others to follow.

5. Build a Supportive Network and Lift Others Up

No leader achieves success alone, and trailblazing women know this well. That’s why I founded HERverse—to ensure that women leaders don’t have to navigate leadership in isolation. Through mentorship, support, and collaboration, we build each other up and create lasting impact.

Condoleezza Rice, the first African-American woman to serve as U.S. Secretary of State, has long been an advocate for the advancement of women and minorities in leadership positions. She has mentored young women and opened doors for others to rise through the ranks of politics and business.

Key Takeaway: Leadership isn’t just about achieving personal success—it’s about empowering others. Building networks, fostering mentorship, and offering support can create a ripple effect of success.

6. Take Risks and Own Your Success

One of the most powerful lessons from trailblazing women is the importance of taking risks and owning your success.

Eleanor Roosevelt was a tireless advocate for human rights, using her platform as First Lady to influence public opinion and policy. She didn’t shy away from controversial topics and took risks to stand up for what she believed in.

Serena Williams, widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time, has faced setbacks and controversies throughout her career. Yet, she has continued to take risks, innovate in her sport, and stand her ground in fighting for equality for women—especially in sports. Serena’s career exemplifies the importance of owning your power and pushing past obstacles.

Key Takeaway: Great leaders are bold. They take risks, embrace uncertainty, and own their accomplishments. True leadership comes from having the courage to take a chance and then owning the outcome, no matter what.

Take These Lessons to Heart

Trailblazing women have taught us invaluable lessons about leadership. From resilience in adversity to the power of empathy, education, and risk-taking, these women have shaped history and continue to inspire future generations.

Which of these lessons resonates most with you? How are you applying them in your leadership journey? Let’s continue the conversation—because when women lead boldly, we all rise together.

Kristie Clayton HERverse Founder

#HERthoughts