I had really high expectations of myself. When preparing for the interview, I decided the only way I could make it unique and meaningful was to ask her things that I had not heard other interviewers ask.
I also knew that I wanted our conversation to be real. To be a conversation between two women in which we openly discussed our ambition, our purpose, and our persistence. To speak about being brave, vulnerable and courageous - often all at the same time.
I knew that kicking off with a question about Imposter Syndrome would probably get people’s attention, but I didn’t expect that it would appear on almost all news sites in the country for the next few days.
It got me thinking about having real conversations, and being brave enough to say what we actually think. Whether we ever truly acknowledge our vulnerability to anyone but ourselves....
So this week, I want to ask you this - when was the last time you stood in your truth? Do you really feel that you are having real conversations and if so, do you feel that what you are saying will light the path for others and help lead them towards their goals?
Obviously, I didn’t know what the First Minister’s response was going to be last week. From the outside looking in, I wouldn’t have been surprised if she had said no - that Imposter Syndrome wasn’t an issue for her. But she didn’t. She was honest and real - and said something that I think many women at the top of their game would perhaps have shied away from saying. That’s not to blame women at all. Not at all.
We live in a patriarchy which makes it very difficult for women to show vulnerability or perceived weakness at all. While a bullying man is described as strong, a bullying woman is a bitch ; while a working dad going straight back to work after his baby is born is committed to supporting his family, a woman who returns to her career ‘too soon’ is often perceived as heartless.
The double standards are so outrageous that they’re almost laughable.
As I wrote in my column last week, having a tribe of women around you who will speak their truth, and therefore make space for you to do the same, is vital to keep the wheels of change turning.
We have the power to change this dialogue that has tried to diminish us in so many ways. A dialogue that goes on and on and on. But we need to do it together.
I’m building a Tribe by offering workshops and recording and sharing my Ignite Tribe Podcasts. I’m imagining what our city could look like if we all decided to bring together Tribes of women that built on the foundations of being women - unashamed and glorious. Of being brave, strong and bold at the same time as being gentle, vulnerable, and sensitive.
This week I encourage us all to stand in our truth and say what we think. The power of the sisterhood is something to cherish. If we all decide misogyny has no place in our lives and cities, one by one, day by day, we’ll stamp it out.
Together we rise sisters - because when one woman speaks up, she speaks for all women. Let this be the moment you decide to soar into your life as a strong Glasgow women. The time to be proudly vulnerable, courageous and brave all at the same time. That time is now.
To find out more about the Ignite Tribe and listen to the Tribe Podcast go to www.annehughesignite.co.uk
Listen to Anne’s interview with the First Minister here
Tune into ‘Ignite – the Radio Show’ on Sunny Govan Radio at 8pm – 9pm every Monday night. Catch it on 103.5fm or online at www.sunnyg.com.
Anne Hughes is on a mission to ignite the city of Glasgow and empower people, not only to see themselves more fully, but to recognise the impact they’re having in the world. You can follow Anne on Facebook here On Twitter @ahughesignite and on Instagram @annehughesignite
