Emma Grede, co-founder and CEO of Good American and founding partner of Skims, has made headlines with her new book, “Start With Yourself,” emphasizing the importance of ambition for women in the business world. Released recently, the book delves into how social conditioning often restricts women from pursuing their financial ambitions and leadership goals.
In her conversation on the CNBC Changemakers and Power Players podcast, Grede shared profound insights drawing from her experiences in the industry. She highlighted that women frequently face challenges that stem from early childhood conditioning, which teaches them to be “good girls” who remain small and quiet, thus potentially stifling their ambition. “There’s a lot of social conditioning that happens to us,” Grede explained, noting that this fear of sticking out can hinder the entrepreneurial spirit.
One of her primary messages is the necessity of recognizing emotional barriers that prevent women from advancing in their careers. Grede urges aspiring businesswomen, “Why don’t we just get honest about some of this stuff and recognize what in our emotional lives is holding us back?” By addressing these issues, women pave the way for greater self-confidence to pursue their ambitions.
Grede stresses that ambition often requires leaning into discomfort. “I always talk about this idea of ambition being a little bit uncomfortable,” she mentioned, reflecting on her own rise from a single-parent household in East London with limited financial resources. This uncomfortable journey is often coupled with a need for a clear vision and an actionable plan. “Ambition needs to find you working,” she stated, pointing out that ideas alone are not enough for success.
With her successful partnerships with the Kardashian family, Grede acknowledges that trust and mutual understanding are essential in business partnerships. She remarked, “You have to be able to have an intrinsic understanding of what your partnership brings and what it does together.” While celebrity endorsements can expand reach, operational experience and a shared vision are vital for sustainable growth.
Additionally, Grede offered insights into dealing with failure—a common hurdle many entrepreneurs face. Speaking from her own experience of a failed global talent agency, she shared, “That situation was bad, that thing didn’t work. But what can I take from that?” This mindset is crucial, especially for women who may internalize failures more deeply than men. “What I don’t like is this thought that everything is so finite,” Grede expressed, urging women to view failures as learning experiences rather than permanent setbacks.
Moreover, Grede emphasizes the importance of visibility in the workplace. For women in corporate settings, she suggests that being present in the office can significantly influence career advancement. “A great career requires visibility, and it requires proximity,” she noted, reminding that remote work should not eclipse the advantages of in-person interactions.
As Grede continues to inspire women to unlock their potential, her wisdom resonates across industries. With a powerful narrative and practical advice, she encourages women to not let social conditioning limit their aspirations. Instead, they should embrace their ambitions, develop a solid plan, and be ready to put in the hard work necessary to achieve their goals.
Key Takeaways from Emma Grede
- Recognize Emotional Barriers: Be honest about what’s holding you back.
- Embrace Discomfort: Lean into the challenges of ambition.
- Trust in Partnerships: Ensure mutual understanding brings value.
- View Failure as a Learning Tool: Failure is part of the journey.
- Visibility Matters: Maintain in-office presence for career growth.
Final Thoughts
Emma Grede’s insights provide valuable guidance for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of business. Through her experiences and reflections, she demonstrates that success is about more than ambition; it requires understanding oneself, taking calculated risks, and fostering meaningful connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Emma Grede’s new book about?
Emma Grede’s new book “Start With Yourself” focuses on empowering women to overcome social conditioning that limits their ambition and encourages them to pursue financial independence and leadership roles.
How does Emma Grede define ambition?
Grede defines ambition as a journey that may be uncomfortable and requires individuals to lean into those discomforts while working diligently towards their goals.
What lessons does Grede suggest regarding failure?
She encourages women to view failure as a learning experience rather than a permanent setback, emphasizing the importance of moving on and growing from those experiences.
Is visibility important for career growth according to Grede?
Yes, Grede stresses that visibility and proximity in the workplace greatly contribute to career advancement opportunities.
What partnerships have influenced Emma Grede’s career?
Grede’s partnerships with the Kardashian family, notably through brands Good American and Skims, highlight the significance of trust and shared vision in business success.
