How to stop feeling insecure?
The story
How can I stop feeling insecure in those big meetings with a roomful of older men? It's infuriating when they don't bother to listen to my ideas, even though I know my stuff. I'm 32, a woman in this male-dominated industry, and it's always the same story: heads nodding politely but ignoring me! The energy in these meetings feels so off-balance sometimes... maybe it's because I find myself second-guessing everything I say?
I'm not the only one who's felt sidelined at work, right?! There's got to be a way to make my voice heard without resorting to shouting or making a scene. Confidence is key... they say. But how do you maintain it when you're navigating such toxic waters? It's like walking on eggshells every damn day.
This isn't just about me trying to "fit in." How can we have productive meetings if forward-thinking ideas are dismissed just because they come from someone who doesn't fit their mold? Frustration grows and productivity wanes. What's it going to take for these guys to finally sit up and take notice?
I've been outperforming some of these men by leaps and bounds! Yet the doubt creeps in whenever I'm expected to present something crucial. It's not fair! I want solid feedback on my proposals!! not condescension or dismissal.
I won't let this intimidate me forever! There's hope yet... I'm determined to find strategies that empower and bolster my confidence despite this perpetual obstacle course. So here it is: how do you stay secure in your skin when everyone around you seems intent on undermining your authority?
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Points of view
I understand how daunting it can be, especially when your ideas are brushed aside. However, remember that persistence often pays off over time.
That's true, patience does help sometimes!
man, that's tough!!! I kinda get it. there was this one time I had to present in front of this big-shot panel; all older guys too who just gave me blank stares. felt like talking to a wall... really made me question if I even belonged there? but hey, maybe it's not about fitting in their mold at all. what if it's more about smashing that damn mold apart??? you got skills for sure and they're gonna have to deal with it eventually; keep pushing through the noise. sometimes silence can be louder than shouting anyway!
Ugh, I feel your pain. It's like you're playing the world's worst game of "guess who's being ignored" every time you step into the room 🤦♀️ The whole gender dynamic in these meetings can be such a trip; it sure doesn't help when they act as if they're doing you a favor by just nodding along. But hey, I've been there too! Back when I worked at my first tech job, I'd sit there thinking I must be speaking Klingon or something because no one listened to me either. If they want to ignore those fresh ideas and stick to their same old routine, that's on them... but don't let them drag you down with it! Building that confidence is tough in an environment like this (there's only so much fake-it-till-you-make-it can handle), but each time they overlook you and you still push through—that's where real strength builds. ✊ Keep going strong; maybe they'll eventually notice what they've been missing out on all along!
feeling sidelined like that is super frustrating, but honestly, sometimes it helps to change up the meeting dynamic a bit by owning the space right away.
Man, that sounds so frustrating!! I've been there too (not exactly in meetings but in situations where people just... don't listen). It's like banging your head against a wall sometimes. Sometimes it's helpful to keep chipping away at it by finding allies in those meetings who can back you up. Having that one person reinforce your point or bring the conversation back to an idea can make a difference; I know, easier said than done but worth considering! Keep being relentless and true to yourself, girl.
ever thought that maybe half these guys are just as clueless and overconfident as they act?
yea i feel ya offices can be really toxic tbh but like dont give up if u keep bringing strong points ppl eventually notice its hard af tho
It is tough out there! Keep pushing!
it's absolutely maddening how people can be so dismissive in these meetings, right? like, you've proven your capability time and time again yet some folks just can't see beyond their own biases. i've been in similar situations where i had to remind myself of my achievements and trust in my expertise because no one else was going to do it for me. maybe consider finding an ally or mentor within the organization who values what you bring to the table; sometimes having that support can make all the difference when you're feeling undermined. ultimately, while it's crucial to keep pushing forward, remember that you have every right not only to take up space but also to demand acknowledgment for your contributions!
yo, been there too! it sucks when you're trying to make a point and it's like you're invisible. i think sometimes these dudes get so stuck in their own ways they've got blinders on to anything new or different. one thing that helped me was taking control of the narrative early: like kick off with something unexpected or thought-provoking to grab attention right from the start. might feel awkward at first, but it can shake things up enough to make 'em listen. also, don't discount using humor or storytelling if it's appropriate; sometimes breaking the monotony can shift focus back your way and lighten the mood for you too. remember they're just people even if they seem super overpowering, so keep rocking what you know! 🤘
Absolutely agree! I've faced similar situations where my contributions were ignored simply because of who was delivering them. It took time but gradually they started recognizing the value I brought once I proved myself through consistent delivery.
yikes, sounds like a real headache... 😡 one thing’s for sure, those meetings can feel like a damn battlefield. ever tried setting up some one-on-one chats with the higher-ups outside of those big meetings? sometimes getting them to hear you without all the other noise can change the game. i know it's not always easy to break through that "boys’ club" vibe 🙄, but every little move makes a ripple. hang in there!
Have you ever tried changing your approach slightly? Sometimes small tweaks can make a big difference.
Interesting idea... worth considering.
ever noticed how these meetings turn into echo chambers?