I’m late to the party, but I’m finally here. I read Sheryl Sandberg’s bestselling book, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead, published in 2013. The book explains the cultural and personal forces that hold women back from achieving their full potential at work.
Sandberg’s writing is relatable, direct, and often laced with a refreshing dose of vulnerability. She doesn’t shy away from sharing her insecurities and struggles, making her arguments both accessible and persuasive.
Drawing from her previous experiences as a top executive at Facebook (now Meta) and Google, she blends personal stories with compelling research and data to dissect the societal and psychological factors that contribute to the leadership gap. She also shares actionable insights that encourage women to overcome external and internal barriers to their professional advancement.
“Lean In” is more than a memoir; it’s a manifesto that inspires aspiring leaders and professional women to claim their seats at the table. Below are five key lessons from the book that continue to resonate today.
- Sit at the table
Many women tend to underestimate their capabilities and hesitate to take leadership roles. Sandberg observes that women often physically and metaphorically remove themselves from key discussions and decision-making spaces.
She encourages women to speak up in meetings, sit confidently at the table, and pursue leadership opportunities. The message is clear, competence should never be hidden behind modesty. By being present and visible, women can begin to shift the dynamics of representation in professional settings. It’s about actively participating rather than passively observing.
2. Done is better than perfect
Perfectionism can be paralyzing, especially for people who feel the pressure to prove themselves. Sandberg promotes the idea of focusing on results rather than chasing unattainable perfection. This lesson applies not only to women in leadership but to anyone struggling with self-doubt or fear of failure.
3. Don’t leave before you leave
One of the most profound insights from Lean In is the idea that women subconsciously downshift their careers and limit their professional growth when they start thinking about having children, even years in advance.
Sandberg encourages women not to pull back prematurely but to remain engaged until the moment a change is necessary. This proactive mindset helps maintain momentum in one’s career. She also explains that pursuing opportunities until the actual need to take leave arises keeps more doors open in the future.
Extract from Lean In – Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg:
Anyone lucky to have options should keep them open. Don’t enter the workforce already looking for the exit. Don’t put on the brakes. Accelerate. Keep a foot on the gas pedal until a decision must be made. That’s the only way to ensure that when the day comes, there will be a real decision to make…. Page 103.
4. Seek and offer honest feedback:
SherylSandberg highlights the power of constructive criticism and the importance of both giving and seeking honest feedback. Women, she notes, may receive less direct feedback than men, hindering their growth. Creating a culture of open and honest communication is crucial for professional development for everyone.
5. Make your partner a real partner
Sandberg emphasizes that gender equality at work begins at home. Recognizing the disproportionate burden of domestic responsibilities often falling on women, she advocates for shared responsibilities between partners to prevent women from bearing the brunt of domestic duties.
Sharing responsibilities allows women to dedicate more energy to their careers without feeling guilty or overwhelmed, creating more room for them to grow professionally. This lesson resonates with the need for open communication and shared commitment in personal relationships.
Bonus lessons:
6. The leadership ambition gap
Workplace biases and societal norms often dissuade women from aspiring to top positions. Sandberg argues that we need to close the leadership ambition gap by removing the stigma around assertiveness and supporting women’s ambitions. Women should be encouraged to dream big, just like their male counterparts.
7. Believe in your potential and “Lean In”
This overarching lesson encapsulates the book’s central message. Sandberg encourages women to challenge self-doubt, overcome their fear of failure, and proactively pursue their ambitions. It’s about having the courage to step outside your comfort zone, take risks, and confidently lean into leadership roles.
“Lean In” remains a must-read for anyone interested in career growth, leadership development, and gender equality. While the conversation has evolved since its publication, its core messages about partnership, ambition, and challenging societal norms continue to resonate and inspire individuals to create a more equitable and inclusive professional world.
Lean In undeniably ignited a crucial dialogue and continues to inspire many to challenge the status quo.
If you found this article insightful, I highly recommend checking out the book reviews section for more thought-provoking content: Book Reviews – Georgina Musembi
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