Are you a trailblazer? Discover the courage, vision, and resilience in every woman

When my coach first suggested the word ‘Trailblazer’ for my new program, I hesitated. Could I really be a trailblazer? For years, I thought the word was reserved for women with decades of experience. But that one conversation changed everything.

So, what exactly is a Trailblazer? There are many qualities we can explore … let’s talk about some of the most outstanding ones:

• Courage to break norms: Trailblazing women often challenge the status quo, whether it’s in the boardroom, the workplace, or their communities.
• Vision for a better future: Trailblazers are future-focused, seeing possibilities where others see limitations.
• Resilience in the face of obstacles: Trailblazers aren’t stopped by setbacks—they see them as steppingstones.
• Authenticity: Trailblazers lead with their true selves, bringing their values and passions into every decision.

These qualities may seem lofty, but they’re within reach for all of us. Whether in our careers or personal lives, trailblazing moments happen every day. When I think about these traits, I see them reflected in my clients, colleagues, and even myself—everyday women making extraordinary choices. Look around at the women in your life. Who are the trailblazers you know? And if you’re wondering, perhaps you are one of them.

Trailblazing isn’t a title that you work towards or earn. It’s not a promotion and in fact, if you were looking for a new position, you wouldn’t find it there either. You see, being a trailblazer is about taking action. It’s an ongoing process and I bet you’ll recognize yourself in some of these examples.

• Being the first to speak up: Whether in meetings, conferences, or difficult conversations, trailblazers aren’t afraid to make their voices heard.
• Carving a path for others: Trailblazers often open doors for the women who follow, making sure they don’t face the same barriers.
• Embracing risk: They take calculated risks, knowing that innovation requires stepping into the unknown.
• Empowering the next generation: Trailblazers don’t just forge their own paths … they create opportunities for others. It’s not only achieving their own success … trailblazers make a point to reach back and support other women.

Whether you are in a leadership role, an entrepreneur, a mom or creating a side gig, every woman has the power to be a trailblazer in her own life. One of the things I always stress is that we are all leaders, regardless of your title. You see leadership is about influence, not position. Every day, women trailblaze—sometimes in big, bold moves, and sometimes in the quiet moments that shift their lives. In fact, many women are trailblazing paths to work-life harmony and creating new standards for success that blend personal and professional fulfillment.

The question is, how do you embrace your inner trailblazer?

• Identify the trails you’ve already blazed: Take some time to reflect on the moments when you’ve shown courage and leadership, no matter how big or small.
• Set your vision: Trailblazers are always forward-looking. What is that bold vision for your future that you have your sights on?
• Build a community of support: Are you part of a network with like-minded women? Being surrounded by other trailblazing women will create a sense of connection and community … imagine the results!
• Keep evolving: Like everything else, trailblazing isn’t about perfection but progress. Celebrate every step forward.

Every woman has the power to be a trailblazer. So, what’s the next trail will you’ll blaze? Reflect on your journey and embrace the opportunities ahead to lead with courage, vision and resilience.

Whether you’re leading a team or leading your life, remember, trailblazing isn’t a destination, it’s a journey. And every step is a victory.