Taking the Stage: How Women Can Speak Up, Stand Out, and Succeed

Chapter SevenBe Courageous

Mary Jane, a human resources specialist in Manila, is a superb example of how to act with courage. As she puts it, “Courage enabled me to take the stage not just in my career but even in my personal life. I used to be very hesitant to express my views or opinions; I got this from growing up in a family where traditional Chinese views are very much present. I remember during my first job, my feet were shaking and I kept on mumbling whenever my boss who was seventy-five years old came to me and asked me questions. I had this fear that if I say ‘no’ to what he wants us to implement, I will be punished, just like saying ‘no’ to parents. During Taking the Stage, the discussion showed me that hey, we need to speak for ...