Why None of this Will Fix Confidence at Work

Hormones can create a confidence gap. Are workplaces solving the wrong problem?For many women, perimenopause and menopause don’t just change their bodies. They change the way they see themselves.At the very stage of life when women have decades of experience and wisdom to offer, many find themselves second-guessing their judgement, losing trust in their own minds and wondering what’s happened to their confidence.Yet most workplace menopause initiatives focus on the symptoms everyone can see.In this episode of Claiming Your Confidence Katrina asks whether we’re missing the real issue, and whether that blind spot is costing women their confidence and their careers.In this episode:* The unique confidence gap women face in midlife due to hormonal shifts* How physical and psychological symptoms differ and affect confidence* The story of Lauren, a woman who nearly lost her career to menopause misdiagnosis* Innovative workplace policies from the UK and Australia addressing menopause challenges* The shift from focusing on visible symptoms versus underlying psychological impacts* Evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and manager education to support women* Practical tips for women: paced breathing, catching catastrophic thoughts, and psychoeducation* The inspiring findings from Harvard on women emerging more assertive post-menopause* Clarification on hormone therapy (HRT) benefits and considerations* A call to women to understand the temporary nature of these changes and support each other betterTimestamps:00:06 - Introduction to menopause, confidence, and midlife challenges00:35 - The confidence gap and societal conversation gaps01:03 - Hormonal influence on brain systems and confidence01:52 - The importance of naming hormonal symptoms02:22 - The challenges women face in safe spaces for honesty at work03:20 - The flaw in current workplace menopause policies03:49 - The story of Lauren and career near-loss due to misdiagnosed menopause symptoms08:08 - Workplace initiatives that are making a difference worldwide10:15 - The gap between physical symptom management and underlying psychological impacts12:05 - Lack of evidence linking policies to career retention outcomes13:02 - The psychological symptoms most responsible for career damage14:21 - The limitations of visible symptom-focused solutions15:42 - Evidence-based supports: CBT and manager coaching16:42 - Practical self-help strategies: paced breathing, cognitive restructuring, psychoeducation19:00 - The positive transformation in women post-menopause, becoming more assertive20:24 - Brief notes on hormone therapy (HRT) considerations20:52 - Key takeaway: understanding and support are crucial for confidence recovery21:22 - Closing thoughts and encouragement for women to seize this transitional stage21:46 - Call to action: subscribe, review, and connect on social mediaResources & Links:* Women of a Certain Stage - Lauren’s consultancy on menopause in the workplace* Harvard Business Review Study on Women Leaders - The confidence boost after menopause transition* Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) - Evidence-based support for managing menopause distress* Transitioning Well - Australian organization training managers on menopause supportConnect with Katrina Blowers:* Instagram* Claiming Your Confidence - Instagram Profile This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit katrinablowers.substack.com