Why Brilliant Women Hold Back (and How to Break Through)

Key points

Many high-achieving women hesitate not from lack of skill but from systemic conditioning.

Holding back often shows up as over-preparing, under-sharing, and chronic self-doubt.

Perfectionism, fear of judgment, and internalised doubt are the main drivers of hesitation.

Confidence grows through aligned action, values-based leadership, and redefining readiness.

Why brilliant women hold back Source: Shurkin Son/AdobeStock

We work with high-achieving, talented women every day. These are women with strong track records, clear goals , and an enormous amount to offer. And still, many of them hold back.

They hold back from speaking in meetings, even when they have valuable insight to share

They delay applying for promotions or new roles, waiting to meet every single criteria