I often ask myself: “Who am I really?”
Am I simply a coach, a business owner, or perhaps just an entrepreneur?
Every time I ask myself these questions, the mirror reflects something deeper. I see not just a woman who runs a business—I see a woman who survived silence, oppression, and trauma; who reclaimed her voice against all odds. I see a leader. A role model. A voice for women who’ve been told to stay silent.
Leadership, I’ve learned from my own challenging journey growing up as a refugee, then working as a journalist and activist in Afghanistan, is not a title. Leadership is about embodying your values, living with integrity, and having the courage to rewrite your story even when it feels impossible.
Leadership means standing firm in your identity, reclaiming your truth, and empowering others to do the same.
Leadership & Self-Mastery: The True Path to Empowerment
My memoir, The Woman Who Refused to Be Silenced, taught me that the journey to self-mastery and authentic leadership starts with one critical ingredient—self-discipline. Leadership without discipline, self-control, and emotional mastery is like a ship without direction.
True leaders aren’t merely those who excel professionally; they’re women who courageously lead their own lives first.
If you aspire to become an empowered leader—in business, life, and your own heart—here are seven principles that will transform you into a powerful and authentic leader:
- Clarity
Leadership starts by knowing clearly who you are, what you stand for, and what you won’t accept. Clarity in your values, vision, and goals is essential.
Ask yourself: Who am I beyond my pain or past? Where am I going, and who do I want to empower? - Competence
Leadership requires setting high standards for yourself first. Strive continually to improve your skills, mindset, and capabilities. Always show up as the woman you aspire to be—confident, competent, and authentic.
Ask yourself: How can I continually grow, learn, and improve as a leader? - Commitment
A true leader commits fiercely to her purpose, vision, and people. She inspires others through passion, resilience, and unwavering belief in herself and her mission.
Ask yourself: How deeply am I committed to my vision and the impact I wish to create? - Overcoming Constraints
Every leader faces obstacles. Leaders see these as opportunities to grow. Identify what’s holding you back—fear, doubt, past trauma—and invest energy and resources to break these constraints.
Ask yourself: What’s currently limiting me from becoming the woman I know I can be? - Creativity
Great leaders remain open and adaptable. Embrace creativity, innovation, and boldness. Be willing to rewrite your rules, rethink your strategies, and dare to dream differently.
Ask yourself: How can I creatively face my challenges and break through old patterns? - Continuous Learning
Never stop learning. Invest consistently in yourself, through mentorship, coaching, reading, and deep personal reflection. The day you stop learning is the day you stop leading.
Ask yourself: What new skills or perspectives do I need today to lead my future? - Consistency
Effective leaders are reliable, trustworthy, and steady—especially under pressure. Your consistency builds trust. Show up every day with courage, confidence, and compassion, regardless of the challenges you face.
Ask yourself: Am I consistent in how I show up—for myself and others?
Stepping into Your Leadership: Your Next Chapter
This journey of leadership and self-empowerment inspired my memoir, The Woman Who Refused to Be Silenced. It’s more than just my story—it’s an invitation for every woman to reclaim her voice, break free from limiting beliefs, and lead a life of courage, authenticity, and purpose.
If you’re ready to step beyond coaching or entrepreneurship—to fully embrace your role as the empowered leader of your own life—I’m here to support you.
You were never meant to be silenced. You were meant to lead.
Ready to rewrite your story and lead with purpose?
👉 Book Your Free Discovery Call Today
With love, courage, and belief in you,
Maryam Jan Akbari
