It was only recently that I was introduced to Flippen's Constraint Theory, that "our personal constraints determine our ultimate level of success." What makes this theory even more compelling to me personally is the simple clue Flippen gives in identifying our greatest constraints.

I have the honor of being part of an executive roundtable in Cincinnati (At Work on Purpose). One of the insightful tools our roundtable leadership used was inspired by LionsLead. 

Change is inevitable. The sun will rise, and the sun will set. The seasons will change. Children will grow. Jobs may change. Hobbies may change. Doors may close. Doors may open.

How many times [countless] have we all blown it, made mistakes, or missed deadlines and our knee jerk reaction has been to point to something other than ourselves as the reason. Essentially saying I’m not responsible for owning my actions, responsibilities, and commitments.

Some believe success is relative to money; some believe success is relative to fame; some believe success is relative to the number of people who have heard their message, read their book, or seen their movie.

Now . . . Imagine with me for just a minute . . . What would our world look like if women were women’s biggest fans?

So, what does this HBR research mean to us as women? I keep going back to these two simple, yet powerful thoughts. Two thoughts that if they were to change, they would shift the paradigm of gender bias we all experience and have participated in as women.