Cultivating a Can-Do Mindset:

How Women Can Overcome Doubt and Own Workplace Opportunities 

Hello and welcome back to our series on personal leadership! In this instalment, we’re looking at Can-Do Attitude, a mindset that is about taking action, embracing challenges, and not letting doubt hold you back. It's a key personal leadership trait for any woman who wants to own her career, no matter her role or industry. 

1. What is a Can-Do Attitude? 

A Can-Do Attitude is one of ten interconnected mindsets that influence effective leadership, as identified in the A Matter of Choice (AMOC) leadership report. The report defines it as a mindset where leaders "roll their sleeves up and get stuck in" in times of hardship. It’s about being a "courageous role model" who is passionate about their work, with a pragmatic approach that shows a "clear will to win" by stepping "outside their comfort zones". This mindset is about taking initiative and embracing responsibility, rather than waiting for someone else to act. It's the conviction that you can overcome obstacles and achieve your goals. 

2. Why a Can-Do Attitude Matters for Women 

This mindset is particularly powerful for women who may face self-doubt or imposter syndrome. Research suggests that cultivating a Can-Do attitude can help you reframe challenges as opportunities for growth. It empowers you to tackle tasks you might otherwise shy away from, building confidence and expanding your skill set. By "getting stuck in," you not only solve problems but also demonstrate your capabilities and value to your team and organisation. 

By developing this mindset, you can: 

• Overcome Self-Doubt: A Can-Do Attitude helps you confront your inner critic. Instead of thinking "I can't," you start asking "How can I?"

• Seize Opportunities: When you're ready to "get stuck in," you're more likely to spot and take on new projects, leadership roles, or career opportunities that come your way. This proactive approach can set you apart and accelerate your professional growth. 

• Inspire Others: Your positive, proactive approach can be contagious. When you act as a courageous role model, you show your colleagues what's possible, creating a more resilient and dynamic work environment. 

3. How to Cultivate a Can-Do Attitude 

A Can-Do Attitude isn't something you're born with; it's a skill you develop with practice. Here’s how you can start your personal leadership journey: 

• Start Small: Identify one small task you've been putting off or a new skill you want to learn. Take the first step today. The act of starting builds momentum. 

• Reframe Your Thoughts: When faced with a challenge, replace negative self-talk with positive, action-oriented questions. For example, instead of "I'm not qualified for this," ask "What do I need to learn to be qualified?" 

• Seek Out Opportunities: Look for ways to take on new responsibilities, even if they're outside your comfort zone. Offer to help with a new project or volunteer to lead a meeting. 

• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge your progress. Each time you "get stuck in" and achieve something, no matter how small, celebrate it. This reinforces the positive behaviour and builds your confidence. 

4. Resources for Your Journey 

To continue your journey, we recommend these empowering reads: 

• The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance—What Women Should Know by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman: This book explores the science behind confidence and offers practical advice on how to build it and overcome self-doubt. 

• You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero: A witty and irreverent guide that provides practical exercises to shift your mindset and overcome limiting beliefs. 

• Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol Dweck: A foundational book on the power of a growth mindset, which is key to developing a Can-Do Attitude and embracing challenges. 

This is part of ten blogs on developing your personal leadership. Our aim is to help women build confidence, emotional intelligence, and resilience for a more fulfilling work life.

We know this journey isn't easy, but we are here to help. At Women of Our Time, we offer a free 1-2-1 service, workshops, and products designed to give you the information, advice, and guidance you need to thrive. We also offer personal mental toughness profiling and feedback to help you understand your strengths and develop your resilience.