Ian Gotts’ Post

"I'm here and I can lead too." I joined the Shipping Industry over 13 years ago, historically male dominated industry and in I walked as an oblivious apprentice - fresh faced, optimistic - and female. It was never a factor I considered, and for that I was naïve. I've learned so much over the years, about the industry and most importantly about myself. I've come to understand my own values & what I believe is important, because both my ability to be my authentic self & maintain my professional brand, have become very important as I've progressed through management. Since being at CMA I've been afforded opportunities to both attend and run training; I've joined, led and facilitated DE&I sessions - however even in 2024 its very apparent, this day is still needed. I've 'Leaned In' and asked for opportunities, progressing into senior leadership... but the jokes, the microaggressions, and the inequality is still apparent. And the sad fact is, they're just as prevalent today as they were 13 years ago when I entered the workplace. Difference being now? I know how to tackle them. International Women's Day for me, is that acknowledgement - we still have a way to go. Appreciating both how to tackle those key elements in the fight for equality, and how to be a voice for those who aren't quite there yet themselves. Being that voice for the 17 year old apprentices, and being someone for future generations of women to look up to Happy International Women's Day... and on we go!

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If only women could flick a confidence switch and be as kick-ass confident as Reshma. The world and society would be so much better. There is a place for programmes like IMPACT: Women Who Lead because unfortunately there is no such thing as a confidence switch. IMPACT is not about fixing women. It's about taking a stand for women's future, fulfilment and impact in the world. It's about undoing the effect of life-long undermining propaganda based on unconsious bias against women. It's about reconnecting with personal power, re-building real and deep confidence, and developing political intelligence so that women can successfully navigate and influence at the top of male-dominated organisations and claim their rightful place in leadership. #womeninleadership #confidence

Last year I completed Oxford Women’s Leadership Development Programme, and one of the many lightbulb moments was how self doubt can be the enemy of progress for women. For example, research has shown that when men are asked to identify their first experience of leadership, most reference their childhood, perhaps captaining a sports team. Women, on the other hand, typically reference their first managerial role at work. So as we look to the IWD theme; invest in women, accelerate progress, to all the wonderful women in my network, please invest in yourself. Self-acceptance in such a critical part of development, and acknowledging your abilities as a female leader. Here the brilliant Reshma Saujani recalls her own lightbulb moment of self-acceptance, and how it has positively impacted her self-belief, confidence and agency. Steven Bartlett demonstrates the powerful role of communication, and that even in the simple act of sharing this video with his network, he has invested in women. Happy Women’s Day 2024!

Why do women struggle ? You want a voice ? What does it take to improve your communication to the next level. Time to focus more on the impact your words are making than on impressing people with what you know. Relate, connect, and keep it simple! Sheryl Sandberg's book "Lean In" also focuses on empowering women to pursue their ambitions, achieve professional success, and overcome gender biases in the workplace. Do you believe it’s time to use the POWER of your voice ?

Today marks a remarkable convergence of two significant celebrations: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY & MAHASHIVRATRI. As we honor women's achievements and advocate for gender equality, it's fascinating to reflect on the concept of Ardhanarishvara, where Lord Shiva is depicted as half-male (SHIV) and half-female (SHAKTI), symbolizing the inseparable union of masculine and feminine energies. In our modern world, this symbolism resonates deeply as we recognize and celebrate the power of women in every sphere of life. Just as Ardhanarishvara represents balance and harmony, let us embrace the strength and resilience of women, who continuously break barriers, challenge norms, and lead with compassion and wisdom. On this auspicious day, let's reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and contribute fully to society. Happy International Women's Day and Mahashivratri to all! #InternationalWomensDay #Mahashivratri #Ardhanarishvara #WomenEmpowerment

I couldn’t agree more with this sentiment. This belief that every woman is naturally resourceful and capable is not only more empowering but true. This is very much the backbone of a good coaching relationship. As a coach I’m not here to tell you what to do but to offer support in exploring your options so that you confidently decide what the best next step is for you. Confidence comes after doing. So whatever your goal, go for it! Here’s to a future of more empowered women. 🥂 Happy International Women’s Day. #internationalwomensday #coaching

Watch this - speaking some real truth to power!! 2X Global

You have the power to take control of your life and head it in the right direction for you. So much in our experience of life, tells us we can’t, from school, family dynamics, relationships, media stereotypes, education and politics. But none of these messages are true unless you believe them and take them to heart and live them in your life. Blame destroys lives, but not the lives the person blaming others may wish to destroy. It poisons their own experience of life. I used to blame others, I thought I couldn’t change things, I lived in near permanent anxiety and didn’t think that I could take control of my life. Then I found out how much my experience of life is created internally, from my own thoughts and feelings, then I realised how much damage it could do to me, and my relationships to continue with those habitual thought patterns. And you know what, those thoughts and feelings that created my experience of life, although familiar, were really unpleasant to live with. So recognising them and letting go made a massive difference to my life. The good news is we can all do this, and learn to live more in a state of ease, no matter what is going on around us and we can teach our kids how to do this too. And it is way easier for kids to make this adjustment than it is for adults, it improves their experience of life and their potential life outcomes way into the future. And the change is way simpler than we think it is.