You Didn’t Work This Hard to Play Small—It’s Time to Own Your Executive Power

You worked for years—maybe decades—to get here. You made the sacrifices, put in the long hours, navigated the politics, and exceeded expectations at every level. And yet, despite earning your seat at the executive table, something still feels off. You walk into high-stakes meetings only to be questioned more than your male counterparts. You offer strategic insights that don’t land the way they should. You work harder, say yes to more responsibilities, and push yourself to prove your worth—while watching others, who don’t seem to carry the same weight, advance with ease.

If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Research shows that even the most accomplished women in leadership continue to battle unconscious bias, self-doubt, and the pressure to outperform to be perceived as equally capable. But here’s the truth no one tells you: Executives don’t earn influence by working harder. They earn it by owning their power.

The problem isn’t your expertise—it’s how you position it. The most influential leaders don’t just execute; they shape the future. They don’t wait to be recognized—they command recognition. They don’t just participate in conversations—they lead them. This is the mindset shift that separates high-achieving women from those who truly make an impact at the highest levels of leadership. And it’s exactly what The Executive Leadership Code helps women master.

The Hidden Leadership Gap No One Prepares You For

Most leadership training is designed for managers, not executives. The playbook that got you to the VP level won’t take you higher. When you operate at this level, the game is no longer about proving yourself—it’s about positioning yourself. Your strategic presence, decision-making power, and ability to shape conversations at the boardroom level are what define your success. And yet, too many women find themselves trapped in execution mode, pulled into tactical decisions, and navigating spaces that still require them to “earn” their influence, even after they’ve already earned their place.

So, how do you shift from an overworked, under-recognized leader to the executive powerhouse who is seen, heard, and respected at the highest levels? Here’s how.

Five Power Moves to Own Your Executive Role Today

First, stop explaining and start declaring. Women in leadership are often socialized to over-explain, to soften their statements with “I think” or “maybe we should consider.” The most respected executives say less, with more impact. The next time you’re in a meeting, deliver your key point in three sentences or less, then pause. Watch the room shift when you stop filling space and start owning your expertise. Instead of saying, “I think we should consider…”, say “Here’s the best path forward and why it matters.” Confident leaders don’t justify their worth—they embody it.

Second, shift from being the fixer to being the architect. If your calendar is filled with problem-solving and reactive decision-making, you’re leading at the wrong level. Executives don’t just solve problems; they design systems that prevent them. Instead of immediately offering solutions, ask your team, “What options have you already considered?” This simple shift forces them to think at a higher level and positions you as a strategist, not just an executor.

Third, own the boardroom before you even speak. Your executive presence is established before a word leaves your mouth. Studies show that leaders who use intentional pauses, strong posture, and direct eye contact are perceived as more powerful, credible, and influential. The next time you enter a high-stakes meeting, walk in with shoulders back, chin up, and deliberate movements. Before you speak, take a brief pause—it signals confidence and authority. The room responds differently when you own your presence.

Fourth, network like an insider, not an outsider. Women are often told to “build their network,” but the most effective executives don’t just collect contacts—they engineer influence. Instead of the generic “Let me know if I can help,” say “Who do you need access to right now to move your biggest priority forward?” This positions you as a connector, builds reciprocity, and ensures your name is associated with high-value conversations. The leaders who advance the fastest are the ones who strategically cultivate relationships with decision-makers.

Finally, make bold decisions—even before you feel ready. The highest-level executives don’t wait for perfect information to take action. They trust their instincts, make the best decision with the data they have, and adjust as needed. The next time you catch yourself hesitating, ask: “What would I do if I were already at the next level of leadership?” Then, do that. Because here’s the truth: You’re already at that level. It’s just time to own it.

Your Leadership Defines the Future of Healthcare—It’s Time to Own It

The most powerful women in healthcare leadership aren’t waiting for permission. They own their voice, their decisions, and their influence at the highest level. They are not working harder than you—they have simply mastered a different set of skills. And now, it’s your turn.

The Executive Leadership Code is designed to help women like you:
✔ Master executive presence & influence.
✔ Lead at scale—without burnout.
✔ Command the boardroom with clarity & confidence.



If you’re ready to go from high-achiever to high-impact executive, let’s make it happen.

Drop a 🔥 in the comments if you’re stepping into this next level.

If you’re ready to implement these shifts right now, DM me “EXECUTIVE” and let’s talk about how to make it happen.

You didn’t work this hard to stay invisible. Now it’s time to lead like the executive you were meant to be.