We hear you, Hillary: what we’ve learnt about gender equality in leadership

Watching the 2016 US presidential election campaign unfold – Donald Trump versus Hillary Clinton – has been fascinating. We’re all global citizens these days, which is why it has been hard to look away from the highly-divisive and emotionally-charged political shenanigans.

If there is an upshot, the campaign has put the lens on gender equality in #leadership. Donald Trump’s appalling behaviour as a leader, has highlighted the impact that old-school, command- and-control leadership has on women. Time will tell how this plays out.

On the flipside, it has been intriguing to see the many different reactions to Hillary Clinton’s loss. In defeat, she has taught us it’s okay to be hopeful, inclusive, and big hearted. I love the response of my colleague, Dr Kylie Bourne, founder, Principled Knowledge:

“The dignity in her concession speech was inspiring,”

“Being informed about how this happened, showing compassion for those who did not vote for her, and galvanising hope – especially for young girls – serve as examples, whatever your personal assessment/impression of her character.”

Reflecting on Hillary Clinton’s dignified reaction to last week’s election result, I believe we can all learn from it. It teaches us how to respond to loss by focusing on a higher purpose and transforming painful emotions and negativity into compassion, courage and inspiration.

The next time you want to retreat and protect yourself from hurt, humiliation, blame, fear, or self-doubt, try doing this instead:

1. Create space for the painful emotions by accepting they exist –but don’t worry about whether they’re good or bad, positive or negative. Just accept that they are there.

2. Step back from the situation – and understand it does not define you.

3. Take committed action towards your values and your higher purpose.

4. Surround yourself with other women who support you, bring the best out in you, and let you be yourself.

Where will Hillary Clinton find this? I don’t know. I trust she will.

In my own personal and professional journey, it struck me there are few spaces for women where they can be honest in their defeat, consider what went wrong, discuss what they learned, and find unwavering support and fellowship. That is why I have created a space like this in Canberra, called the Network of Possibility. Because, after all, most of us want to make the world a better place, and make a positive social impact through the work we do and love.