So here's what I've noticed in coaching highly successful women leaders.

Yes, these opinions are based on my own observations only and may not be backed up by scientific evidence (although ironically a lot of them are. See here  and here for two worthwhile articles, just for starters).

And yes, the following statements are also generalisations.

But bite me. I'm going to put them out there anyway...

1. When it comes to their professional lives, women doubt themselves more than a lone weed in a garden of magnolias.

2. Women's inner critics are alive and well. In fact, they are thriving - and at times, seem more strident than their male counterparts.

3. Women are still afraid (for a raft of reasons) to demonstrate what are commonly termed 'feminine traits' in their leadership roles. Traits such as compassion, intuition and empathy are often suppressed for fear of being too 'touch-feely'.

4. We don't back ourselves enough when it comes to promotions. Our own ideas. Our own capabilities.

We don't back ourselves enough, period.

Here's what I have also noticed when coaching and working with extraordinary women.

When we DO start to back ourselves - own our power and become more of who we really are -  it's an impressive sight to behold.

We become extraordinary leaders.  

Too many women feel an overwhelmingly oppressive pressure to be like their male counterparts. I get it. I have also experienced the pressure to adopt so-called 'masculine leadership traits' as well - such as aggression, competitiveness and mental toughness.

But...you don't have to be aggressive to get ahead. 

There has never been a more relevant time in history for women to step up, step forward and lead - in an authentically feminine way.

So, instead of sitting on the sidelines, I've decided to do my bit.

I got together with some awe-inspiring, totally baddass women. We have put together a phenomenal four day residential workshop, located in the breathtaking setting of Marlborough, New Zealand.

The aim of The Female Leader programme?

It's about breaking 'male-mirroring' behaviours. Exploring the leadership mindset. Examining mental and physical resilience required for female leaders today. And most importantly, empowering women to lead in an open and authentic way.

It's bloody good, if I do say so myself.

Who is The Female Leader for?

Are you... A female leader? Ready to learn some very cool stuff? Keen to hang with some awesome people - just like you? Wanting to become the leader you are designed to be?

If so, sign up.

If you are a man leading a woman leader - or if you have a peer who could benefit - pass this on to her right this minute.

Do it for your employer. Do it for those you lead. Do it for yourself.

Here are the details:

What: The Female Leader Where: Marlborough Vintners Hotel, Marlborough When: March 29 - April 1, 2016 Facilitators: Fiona Fenwick, Jayne Muller, Suzi McAlpine Cost: Earlybird $8995 + GST* (book by November 30 2015). After November 30 2015, $9950 + GST* Limited to 12 attendees per programme *travel additional

Click here to download the flyer.

Fiona, Jane and I look forward to seeing you there.