It seems the trend has moved away from banning books to banning words – particularly words that cause self esteem problems in children. Attempts to ban words began centuries ago. The term ‘bossy’ is not one that is kind. And, Sheryl Sandberg, the chief operating officer of Facebook says to stop using the word: it is a double standard among men and women. Adults can handle it’s use. However, girls view the word negatively.
According to several dictionary definitions, bossy means: given to ordering people about; overly authoritative, domineering. Many boys and men that fit this definition. And, it is not negative. But, when girls are ‘bossy’, it is negative – the double standard. Generally, do not label girls as ‘bossy’. Girls must be encourage to ‘boss’ their way into leadership roles.
Females are not objects (someone that is a sexual symbol or the house-cleaning property of successful men). Generally, these stereotyped roles keep women and girls from reaching their full potential as leaders and it teaches boys that women are subordinates. We need to teach them that it is natural for men and women to live equally.
Women leaders are underrepresented in this world with only 20% of them in a political position and yet they make up approximately 51% of the U.S. population. Therefore, they are also absent in corporate boardrooms. And, they are shut out of institutions of power and most often face poverty and violence.
Education is the critical point for building equal rights and opportunities. Empowerment must begin in our schools and it must begin at an early age. Providing young girls the tools to become leaders is a must. Mentoring and building self-esteem is one way our schools can contribute. The age of eight is the peak age to build leadership ambitions in young girls.
Encourage girls to
• believe they have what it takes to be a leader,
• speak out,
• not to hide abilities in science and math,
• own mistakes (everyone makes them),
• accept constructive criticism,
• approach conflict as an opportunity for change, and
• be proud to be a girl.
Let’s close the leadership gap. Look for programs in schools and in the community that feature programs for girls to unlock leadership capabilities. Both girls and boys need to develop healthy relationship skills. Boys and girls are people. Therefore, treat them equally and with respect.
