What to look for in your daughter:
Empathy: get in other’s shoes & see things from their point of view
Don’t allow words or gossip to bother them: It takes a lot of maturity and strength to stay unaffected by hurtful and disrespectful words. It requires you to really believe in yourself and stay above the drama.
Not care what others think: I love seeing girls dress as they please, hang out with whom they want, and make decisions based on their own moral compass vs. what is popular
Assertive vs. aggressive or no boundaries
Willing to take risks: Being willing to get out of your comfort zone, stretch yourself, and take risks is the mark of courageous people; try things even if judged as weird/different
Stand up for yourself and others: stand up for themselves and others; Girls who notice, include, and stand up for peers who are alone or being bullied
Speaks her mind: Girls who speak out and share their opinions even when they are not popular are demonstrating great heroism and leadership; advocate for self & others
Makes everyone successful: I love seeing strong girls who focus on making their classmates and teammates successful. They have the ability to do their best while at the same time have their interest out to others around them
Brings groups together: Too much attention in schools is given to queen bees and kids who create a lot of drama. They use their power in negative and divisive ways. I’d rather we notice the girls who are kind to all, inclusive, collaborative, and who bring the class or team together by their energy, example, and leadership Across age, gender, and culture, people around the world felt that feminine traits correlate more strongly with making the world a better place Our challenge is to find ways to encourage these traits in girls and to acknowledge them when these qualities are exhibited; acknowledge daughter when see her exhibit these qualities
Traditional male qualities of leadership: Dominant, strong, arrogant, analytical, proud, ambitious, hard-working, self-reliant, aggressive, brave, competitive, stubborn, driven, direct, independent, unapproachable, and innovative (Athena Doctrine)
Feminine leadership qualities: Trustworthy, dedicated, reasonable, adaptable, community oriented, creative, intuitive, passionate, kind, supportive, open to new ideas, generous, humble, loyal, cooperative, selfless, socially responsible, empathetic, understanding, patient, and sensitive
Resources:To learn more about what parents can do to raise daughters with these leadership qualities,
read Dr. Jordan’s book: She Leads: A Practical Guide for Raising Girls Who advocate, Influence, and Lead
Past related podcasts from Dr. Jordan:Stories to Inspire Girls to Forge Their Own Path: Dr. Jordan’s interview with author Dr. Clare Fieseler about inspiring girls through stories of real life, modern day women who forged their own paths in science and exploration.
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