Dreams Quote by Sheryl Sandberg
““There are several explanations offered as to why women have lower aspirations than men, including that women feel there is a lack of fit between themselves (their personal characteristics) and senior leadership positions, which are often characterized in highly masculine terms; women feel there are too many obstacles to overcome; women do not want to prioritize career over family; women place less important than do men on job characteristics common to senior roles, such as high pay, power, and prestige; gender role socialization influences girls' and women's attitudes and choices about occupational achievement; and women are more often located in jobs that lack opportunities for advancement and they lower their aspirations in response to this disadvantageous structural position. (p.191)””
About This Quote
Source Book: Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg, 2013
Women’s lower career aspirations stem from perceived misfit, obstacles, socialization, and structural job limitations.
In simple terms: Women often aim lower due to fit, barriers, and social expectations.
Key Takeaway
Address structural barriers and reshape leadership norms.
Themes
gender inequality
career aspirations
socialization
leadership
structural barriers
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
sociological
critical
When to use this quote
- career counseling
- organizational policy reform
- mentorship programs
- education on gender bias
- leadership development
Key Concepts
fit perception
obstacle perception
role socialization
occupational segregation
career advancement
Questions to Reflect On
- How do intersecting identities affect aspirations?
- What policies can reduce perceived misfit?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all women share the same experiences, ignoring intersectionality.
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