Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective and transformational leadership in schools. It helps leaders handle challenges, assess the impact of their actions, and model active listening and effective problem-solving, among other skills.

But there’s a problem: gender biases still influence how schools operate, often valuing traditional masculine leadership traits over collaboration and empathy.

In my work, both in training aspiring principals at Columbia University Teachers College and supporting schools in implementing SEL, I’ve observed the lasting influence of these biases.

The prevailing norms of leadership often prioritize assertiveness, decisiveness, and competitiveness, inadvertently sidelining qualities like collaboration, mentorship, and relationship-building.

Research underscores the impact of gender stereotypes on workplace dynamics. For women in leadership roles, this manifests as a double bind—a paradoxical situation where they face criticism regardless of their actions:

• If they assert themselves, they risk being labeled as too aggressive, breaking traditional feminine norms.
• If they adopt a more subdued approach, they may be perceived as lacking in leadership qualities and failing to meet traditional expectations.

This conundrum is all too familiar for many women striving to assert their leadership presence. The pressure to conform to traditional leadership paradigms looms large, driven by a desire for validation and competence within their respective school cultures.

In light of these challenges, I’m thrilled to announce the publication of an article in Education Leadership, ASCD’s flagship journal, titled Leading from the HEART. This article delves into the intricacies of the double bind faced by women leaders and guides readers to use the HEART in Mind model to enhance their leadership effectiveness with authenticity. Click on the image below to access the article. 

The timing of this publication couldn’t be more fitting, since March is Women’s History Month, creating an opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and collective action to create more inclusive environments. If you need tools for your classroom, I encourage you to explore this blog post, which offers insights into leveraging SEL to challenge gender stereotypes. 

And for those ready to cultivate their HEART skills, I invite you to join our Growing Your HEART Skills course. With a comprehensive toolkit comprising 14 practical exercises and pre/post self-assessment tools, you’ll expand your social and emotional capacities, empowering you to embody the leader you aspire to be.