I hope you’ve enjoyed this series because we are back with the fourth and final part of our four-part series “How Has the Definition of Success for Women in Leadership Evolved?” Let’s see what the experts have to say.

Creating External and Internal Impact

For me, success as a woman in leadership is about making a meaningful impact on the people and organizations I serve. In other words, making a difference. Specifically, it’s about fostering environments where people feel valued, seen, and empowered to bring their best selves to their work. Early in my career, I might have defined success more traditionally-by achieving specific roles, accolades, or tangible outcomes. Over time, though, I’ve come to value the quality of relationships, the resilience I help cultivate in teams, and the positive shifts I witness in people’s lives and careers as much as any measurable outcome.

This definition has evolved as I’ve grown to prioritize balance, authenticity, and personal growth alongside professional achievement. For me, the objective measure of success is seeing a lasting, positive influence in my work, whether it’s helping people navigate challenges, creating inclusive workplaces, or inspiring resilience in those I coach and support.

Etty Burk, Ph.D., President and Founder, Leading With Difference

Balanced Approach to Work and Life

As a woman in leadership, my definition of success has truly evolved over the years. Now, I see success as the impact I can create, both outwardly and inwardly.

Externally, it’s about the ripple effect of my work. The biggest wins come from seeing others think differently because of something I’ve shared, inspiring them to challenge themselves and grow. It’s also about financial empowerment-achieving milestones that offer freedom and fuel further impact.

Internally, success is about the integrity with which I approach my goals. It’s staying aligned with my values and growing my own resilience, so I can lead authentically and inspire others to do the same.

Geetika Agarwal, Founder, Leadership Coach, Grow With Geetika

Embracing Authentic Leadership Traits

As a Founder and CEO of two growing businesses my definition of success has evolved over the years.  I have been in business for the past 10 years, and when I started I felt that I had to work around the clock in order to succeed.  Now, I know that success comes with a well-balanced approach of work AND personal life, and self-care.  Success is being able to wake up every day with excitement and joy because you are fulfilling your personal mission.  There are days when I still “work around the clock” but now I also take time for myself.  This type of success enables me to be a happier and kinder leader as well.

Beryl Krinsky, Founder & CEO, B.Komplete

Balanced Pursuit of Goals and Ethics

Over the years, women’s leadership has evolved significantly. It has transitioned from the necessity of mimicking traditionally ‘assertive’ traits of leadership to embracing and leading with authenticity grounded in ‘nurturing’ qualities. This evolution reflects a broader understanding that effective leadership can-and should-be inclusive of diverse styles and perspectives, allowing for a more holistic approach to guiding teams and organizations.

The business case for this authenticity is compelling: society is composed of individuals of all genders, making it essential to balance these traits when creating products and services that cater to the entire population. By fostering an environment where diverse leadership styles are valued, organizations can better meet the needs of their customers and drive innovation. This inclusive approach not only enhances employee engagement but also leads to improved business outcomes, as teams that reflect a variety of perspectives are more likely to generate creative solutions and resonate with a wider audience.

As a woman in leadership, my definition of success centers on remaining authentic to myself. I firmly believe that true leadership does not require me to change or adopt attributes solely to fit a conventional mold. Instead, I embrace my authentic leadership qualities, which include compassion, empathy, and fostering emotional safety.

I stay true to my style, regardless of external pressures or expectations. This commitment to authenticity has profound effects on my relationships and I find that I receive an overwhelming level of love, loyalty, and commitment from those around me. People are drawn to authenticity; they appreciate when a leader is genuine and relatable.

Moreover, this authenticity extends beyond the workplace. In my personal life, the relationships I nurture are built on mutual respect and understanding. Friends and family recognize the sincerity in my interactions, which deepens our bonds and enhances our support for one another.

Ultimately, staying true to myself not only enriches my own life but also positively impacts those around me. The love and loyalty I receive are reflections of the environment I strive to create-one where authenticity is celebrated, and everyone feels empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. This approach not only defines my success as a leader but also shapes the legacy I hope to leave behind: that leadership can be both effective and deeply human.

Sunitha Vikram, Managing Director and Co-Founder, AGUA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Services

Empowering Teams and Achieving Goals

As a woman in leadership, I define success as the balanced pursuit of achieving our company’s goals through unwavering ethical standards while nurturing and empowering the individuals who drive those results. True success, to me, is not merely measured by the numbers or milestones we reach, but by the integrity and dedication with which we reach them.

I am deeply committed to fostering an environment where every team member feels valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. This means providing them with consistent coaching, recognizing their contributions, and celebrating their achievements. I believe that the most effective and sustainable outcomes stem from a collaborative and motivated team, where each person not only understands their role but feels genuinely invested in our collective success.

Success is never a solo journey; it requires a passionate group of individuals working together, each bringing their unique strengths and perspectives to the table.

Christina Linton, Chief People Officer + Flarespace CEO, Storyteller Overland

Still trying to figure out what success looks like for you? Let’s figure it out together in Sedona.