90% and Counting: Confronting the Widespread Biases Against Women

The Power of Self-Reflection: Admitting Our Biases for Positive Change

90% and Counting: Confronting the Widespread Biases

90% and Counting: Confronting the Widespread Biases Against Women

The Power of Self-Reflection: Admitting Our Biases for Positive Change

The 2023 United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report on the Gender Social Norms Index has shed light on a painful reality: nearly 90% of men and women hold deep-rooted biases against women.

With this outcome, no frigging way we will reach the UN SDG by 2030!

Yes, it’s not only men who are biased! Both genders (all genders)! This is one reason why I feel so strongly that we’ve got to start looking at leadership beyond gender.

This revelation demands our immediate attention and urges us to reflect on the consequences of such biases.

In this blog post, I will delve into the five significant challenges the world will continue to face if we don’t address these biases, followed by five transformative outcomes when we courageously admit and confront our prejudices.

What happens if we don’t wake up and face our judgemental programs?

• Economic Inequality Persists: The survey highlights a stark reality — the disheartening disconnect between education and income. Even in the 57 countries where women are more educated than men, the average income gap remains at a staggering 39%. This Inequality in earnings reflects the persistent gender bias in the workplace, where women continue to face unequal pay for equal work. Failing to address these biases perpetuates economic disparities and inhibits progress towards a more equitable society.
• Gender-Based Violence Persists: Gender biases contribute to the perpetuation of violence against women. In an environment where such biases prevail, it becomes challenging to break the cycle of violence and ensure a safe and secure society for all.
• Inequality in Decision-Making: When biases against women are deeply ingrained, decision-making processes across various sectors become skewed. The absence of diverse perspectives hampers effective problem-solving and prevents us from harnessing the full potential of human talent.
• Mental Health Challenges: Living in a society that holds biases against one’s gender can lead to negative self-perception, low self-esteem, and mental health issues for both women and men. Addressing biases is crucial for fostering a supportive environment that promotes overall well-being.
• Impediment to Sustainable Development Goals: Achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals requires addressing gender biases comprehensively. By tackling these biases head-on, poverty reduction, education, and healthcare progress will be attainable.

“In a world where biases against women still linger, we must rise above the shadows of prejudice. Let’s embrace the power of change, admit our biases, and pave the way for a future where equality reigns. Together, we can shatter the glass ceiling and create a world where everyone’s worth is recognised, regardless of gender. Join me in challenging biases and forging a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.” — Runa Magusdottir.

What happens when we authentically admit we are biased?

The Transformative Power of Admitting Bias:

• Enhanced Empathy and Understanding: Acknowledging our biases opens the door to increased empathy and understanding. Recognising our limitations allows us to appreciate the experiences of others, fostering a more compassionate and inclusive society.
• Empowerment of Marginalised Voices: When we admit our biases, we create space for marginalised voices to be heard. We can dismantle systemic barriers and promote equal representation by actively engaging with diverse perspectives.
• Positive Role Modeling: Taking ownership of our biases sets an example for others to follow. By acknowledging and working to change our attitudes, we inspire those around us to do the same, creating a ripple effect of change within our communities.
• Collaboration and Innovation: Embracing and actively challenging our biases leads to greater collaboration and innovation. Diverse teams with different perspectives are more likely to generate creative solutions to complex problems, driving societal progress.
• Gender Equality as a Global Priority: By openly confronting biases, we elevate gender equality as a critical global agenda. This collective commitment fosters greater accountability, propelling governments, organisations, and individuals to implement tangible measures for equality.

We are ALL in this sh….together!

I know I’m entirely biased myself. I’m 100% convinced the more I become aware of my unconscious programming and how I judge people, the more I can change my behaviours, actions and view of my world — and so can you!

It is time for us to acknowledge our biases and work towards eradicating gender inequalities.

Together, let’s challenge our biases and build a more equitable future.

#ImBias #BiasToEquality #GenderEqualityNow #UnveilingChange #NoMoreBoxes

Written by: Rúna Magnúsdóttir, leadership coach, speaker and mentor. Author of the books: Branding Your X-Factor and co-author The Story of Boxes, The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.

www.runamagnus.com

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This post was previously published on MEDIUM.COM.

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