Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of meeting and observing many driven women who were on a clear path to the top.

And what I’ve noticed is that while their drive is apparent, it’s the small, often understated habits that set them apart. These aren’t grand gestures or bold declarations of ambition; they’re the quiet actions, mindsets, and choices that propel them forward.

Today, we’re going to take a closer look at these behaviors — eight subtle yet powerful habits that women who are poised to go far in their careers often display.

Recognizing and adopting these behaviors could be the key to unlocking your own career potential and navigating your path with purpose and poise.

Let’s explore what sets these women apart.

1) They embrace the right challenges

Women who are set to shine in their careers often have an uncanny ability to seek out challenges. Instead of shying away from tough tasks, they lean into them.

The idea here is not just about being brave or courageous. It’s about seeing a challenge as an opportunity for growth. When faced with a difficult task, these women don’t see a roadblock; they see a stepping stone to further their skills and experience.

But it’s not about taking on every challenge that comes their way. It’s about choosing the right challenges that align with their career goals and personal growth.

True career progression lies in strategic decision-making.

2) They are not afraid to ask questions

I’ll never forget one of my early mentors, a successful businesswoman named Sandra.

Amidst a boardroom full of seasoned professionals, Sandra was never afraid to ask questions. Even if they seemed simple or obvious, she would ask until she fully understood the matter at hand.

I remember a particular meeting where we were discussing a complex project. While others nodded along, Sandra paused the discussion to ask for clarification on several points. She wasn’t concerned about looking uninformed – her focus was on gaining a thorough understanding.

This behavior left a lasting impression on me and shaped my own approach to my career.

Women like Sandra, who make it far in their careers, don’t just passively accept information. They actively seek understanding, even if it means asking questions that others might shy away from. They understand that the only foolish question is the one not asked.

3) They prioritize self-care

This is a big one that many overlook.

Despite the hustle and bustle of career growth, successful women understand the importance of taking time out for themselves.

This is well backed up by experts. As noted by the folks at Choosing Therapy, self-care is associated with better relationships, improved productivity, improved self-esteem, and reduced risk of burnout. These are all critical ingredients for career success!

Whether it’s a morning jog, a yoga class at lunch, or just some quiet reading time, these women make sure they carve out space for themselves amidst their busy schedules.

4) They seize opportunities to learn

In the fast-paced world of business and career growth, the ability to continually learn and adapt is key, perhaps now more than ever. 

This is also well-acknowledged by experts. The World Economic Forum, for instance, ranked “Curiosity and lifelong learning” as the fifth most important core skill for workers in their Future Of Jobs 2023 report. 

You’ll often find these women attending workshops, enrolling in online courses, or reading the latest industry literature. They understand that their personal and professional growth is directly linked to their willingness to learn.

And it’s not just about formal education. These women are also open to learning from their experiences, their successes, and even their failures. They know that every situation offers a chance to learn something new.

5) They network intentionally

It’s often said that your network is your net worth, and successful women know the truth in this statement.

These women are strategic about who they connect with and how they maintain those relationships. They value quality over quantity, focusing on building meaningful relationships that are mutually beneficial.

They also understand the importance of giving before receiving. They offer their help and expertise to others in their network without expecting anything in return, knowing that these good deeds often come back around.

Whether it’s attending industry events, volunteering for leadership roles in professional associations, or simply reaching out to a former colleague for a catch-up, these women are always working on expanding and nurturing their professional connections.

6) They aren’t afraid to fail

“Fortune does favor the bold and you’ll never know what you’re capable of if you don’t try.”

– Sheryl Sandberg, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead

Failure is a part of life that many of us dread. But in my own career journey, I’ve learned that failure isn’t the end; it’s just a stepping stone towards success.

I remember an instance where I led a major project that didn’t deliver the results we had hoped for. Instead of being disheartened, I took it as an opportunity to learn. I analyzed what went wrong, what could be done differently, and how I could improve as a leader.

Women who excel in their careers often display this same attitude towards failure. They understand that failure isn’t a reflection of their worth or abilities; it’s just feedback.

They see every failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. They don’t shy away from taking risks for fear of failing; instead, they courageously step into the unknown, knowing that every outcome, success or failure, brings them one step closer to their goals.

7) They maintain a positive attitude

The road to career success is often littered with obstacles and setbacks. But women who are poised to make it far in their careers have a secret weapon: a positive attitude.

A positive attitude helps them stay focused and motivated. It allows them to see the silver lining in every situation and find solutions rather than dwelling on problems.

More importantly, their positivity is infectious. It uplifts those around them, fostering a positive work environment that boosts productivity and morale.

8) They know their worth

At the core of every successful career woman lies a strong sense of self-worth.

These women know their value and aren’t afraid to assert it. They understand their strengths, acknowledge their weaknesses, and are confident in their abilities.

They don’t settle for less than they deserve, whether it’s in terms of compensation, respect, or opportunities. They stand up for themselves and assert their needs and rights.

Knowing their worth allows these women to navigate their careers on their own terms. They set boundaries, negotiate effectively, and don’t let others undermine their value. This unwavering sense of self-worth is the foundation upon which they build their successful careers.

Final thoughts: It’s in the attitude

Whether it’s embracing challenges, asking questions, prioritizing self-care, continually learning, networking intentionally, showing empathy, embracing failure, maintaining a positive attitude, or knowing their worth, these behaviors form the backbone of their success.

But perhaps what’s most crucial to remember is that these behaviors aren’t exclusive. They are accessible to anyone willing to cultivate them. Will you?