While it’s valuable to take time in March to recognize the contributions of women during Women’s History Month, MasterClass celebrates the power women wield by offering uplifting instruction and hands-on lessons every day. Check out these moments of inspiration from some of our most dynamic female instructors—women who have paved new paths in entertainment, politics, and business—and explore tips for trailblazing on your own terms.
Redefining success in business
When Spanx founder Sara Blakely was first starting her empire, a group of men at a cocktail party offered her some unsolicited advice: “Business is war.” She decided that day to steer clear of masculine business constructs and see whether she could be successful without being ruthless. Instead of leaning into fierce competition, she found strength in what she views as feminine traits—ideals that can be embraced by anyone.
“All along the way, I really practiced what felt true to me,” she said. “I feel like business is evolving and everyone is moving towards a new bottom line that is not just financial. The bottom line can now entail how your employees feel and how you’re treating them, how you are serving the world and giving back, and how you are serving the customers with honesty and integrity.”
The self-made billionaire turned the experience into a positive catalyst and an opportunity to create a philosophy that became a core component of her successful business strategy.
Being the first—on a global stage
Women rise when they lift each other up. In their class on diplomacy, two trailblazing diplomats—the late Madeleine Albright, the first woman to become U.S. secretary of state, and Condoleezza Rice, the first Black woman to hold that appointment—made a point to share what they admire about one another.
Secretary Albright praised Secretary Rice for dealing with difficult problems in a very calm way. Secretary Rice returned the favor, extolling Secretary Albright for her sense of confidence in herself, in the department, and in America.
“It’s so integral to who you are,” Secretary Rice said. “It’s truly authentic and organic. I think it’s why you were such a successful secretary of state.”
Secretary Albright pointed out some of the challenges she faced, including the way many people perceived ambition as she was rising through the ranks. It was a desirable quality for men, but considered a derogatory term when it applied to women.
The two offered advice for anyone who steps up to be the first, whether they simply have a desire to achieve a certain role or status, or whether they intend to break glass ceilings. Here are their four dos and don’ts for anyone who is stepping into the exciting and sometimes precarious position of being first:
- Do know that people will be watching—and do what you are called to do anyway. You may face an unfair and out-of-balance level of scrutiny, but do your work to the best of your abilities. You are creating opportunities for yourself and for those who come behind you.
- Do understand that there may be people who are envious, a position that simply comes with the territory you’re entering as a pioneer. Do the best possible job you can and remember that you were chosen for your abilities.
- Don’t take petty criticism to heart. Leadership positions can put your actions under a magnifying glass. Be open to improvement, but consider the motive behind criticism that comes your way. No matter what, keep moving forward toward the goal you’ve set for yourself.
- Don’t wait for doors to be opened for you—forge your own path. If you can’t find mentors who look like you, set out to become the person you were looking for in the first place. “If I had been waiting for a Black female Soviet specialist role model, I’d still be waiting,” Secretary Rice said.
Leading without apology
Media titan Anna Wintour knows well the complexities of being a strong female leader, but she sees the challenges as part of her responsibilities. Her decisive leadership style has served her well as editor-in-chief of Vogue for more than 30 years. In an ever-evolving industry, she’s established herself as a powerful voice and has become widely regarded as the most influential figure in fashion.
“You need to stay true to your own vision and to act always with clarity and conviction,” she said. “That, to me, is what a leader does.”
While it’s important to consider other ideas, including criticism, Anna makes a point of guiding creative teams by offering feedback directly and swiftly.
“There will be those who disagree, but you can’t be everything to everybody and you have to accept that,” Anna said. “Plant your flag in the ground in a way that is most appropriate to the route that you’re taking.”
Breaking boundaries in music
As pop music icon Christina Aguilera developed her voice and freedom of expression, she also confronted norms around what society expects of women and took it upon herself to shut down double standards. In her class, she opens up about her fight for sexual liberation for female artists, particularly through her song Dirrty. Male artists, it seemed, could express themselves without backlash. Women were expected to fit certain molds.
“I was a woman going up there and feeling in control of my whole world on that stage,” she said. “To have that be seen negatively was something I felt very uncomfortable with. I couldn’t stand for it. Everybody should embrace what makes them feel empowered.”
Artists have the power to open up conversations and challenge opinions. If you feel the urge to push boundaries, embrace that internal drive and find the courage to go for it.
“If you feel comfortable with it, own it,” Christina said.
MasterClass at Work
MasterClass at Work is the learning platform that helps you unlock your employees’ full potential and inspires a learning lifestyle in everyone. From negotiation to mindfulness to baking—these are just a few skills your teams can develop.