I recently finished reading the book “Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead/” by Sheryl Sandberg. I was compelled to read to this book for two reasons. First, because it was written by Sheryl Sandberg, who is the COO of Facebook and I have often found Sheryl’s work interesting. Additionally, I read the book out of self- interest; I am always looking to improve professionally and was curious what Sandberg had to say.
The basic point of Sandberg’s book is that the workplace is still full of many gender biases, excuses and justification that will not women anywhere. To get to a professionally equal place as men, women must “lean in” and give it your all; meaning do not doubt your abilities to juggle a professional life and family life. By leaning in professionally, you show that you can handle various situations and you succeed professionally which puts you in a better position to ask for what you need and the ability to makes changes that could benefit others.
The book is easy to read. Sandberg comes across as compassionate funny, honest and likable; not a self absorbed money hunger leader that many might think she is. Through her own experiences, she relays in encouraging terms the message “what would do if you weren’t afraid” – which addresses the issue of self doubt that holds some many people back. Most important, Sandberg is willing to draw the curtain aside on her own insecurities. She describes the many times in her career when she was deeply unsure of herself, and the uncertainty that has never entirely gone away:
“I still face situations that I fear are beyond my capabilities. I still have days when I feel like a fraud. And I still sometimes find myself spoken over and discounted while men sitting next to me are not. But now I know how to take a deep breath and keep my hand up. I have learned to sit at the table.”
I did a lot of self reflecting while reading the book. I could see how far I have come since entering the career field and I also see that there is room for growth. In my current position I find myself sitting at the table and leaning in for the things I want. This has taken years of courage. I often find myself taking a deep breath and speaking up or out, depending on the situation.
Sandberg suggest finding a life partner as a key to successfulness. A partner to her is someone that complements and supports you as you lean in. This is a point I can really relate to her on. Like Sandberg, I married someone I met in college because it was what I thought I was supposed to do. Like her my marriage mine didn’t work, albeit for other reasons, I could see that when it came down to it I did not have a partner. During those years I found it hard to lean in because I constantly worried about how a decision I would make work would affect the relationship. Today, I have partner that does believe me and supports me in finding the home – office balance. While sometimes bluntly, he reminds me that I have to be one to speak up and lay down the law. I find it easier to lean in when I know that leaning in will not cause my personal life to come crumbling in.
Overall, I would say “Lean In” is a quick and easy read. It’s not ground breaking but it put gets out message that many people, regardless of their gender, need to hear.
Finding Amy 