7 subtle behaviors of women who always seem to get ahead in life

I’ve always admired those women who seem to effortlessly rise to the top.

You know the ones I’m talking about, right?

They’re always getting the promotion, landing the dream job, or just generally crushing life in every way possible. And they manage to do it all with a grace and ease that leaves the rest of us wondering, “Just how do they do it?”

Well, I’ve done some digging.

Turns out, these successful women have some subtle behaviors that play a big role in their success. It’s not about being ruthless or stepping on others to get ahead. No, it’s a lot more nuanced than that.

So, if you’re wondering “How can I be more like those women?” Hold tight, because I’m about to share seven subtle behaviors of women who always seem to get ahead in life.

Now let’s dive in!

1) They’re not afraid to ask for what they want

Ever noticed how some people are just so good at getting what they want?

They ask for the raise, the promotion, or the opportunity, and somehow they always seem to get it. But here’s the secret: they’re not just lucky.

These women understand that it’s okay to ask for what they want. They’re not worried about coming off as pushy or demanding. Instead, they see it as a sign of self-respect and assertiveness.

By asking for what they want, they’re showing their value and worth. And more often than not, others recognize this too.

So next time you’re hesitating about asking for something, remember this: if you don’t ask, the answer will always be no. You might be surprised at how often you get a ‘yes’ when you take the leap.

2) They prioritize self-care

I’ve always been a bit of a workaholic.

I’d be the first one in the office and the last one out. I’d check emails during dinner, and my mind was constantly on work even when I was supposed to be relaxing.

But then, I noticed something about these women who always seem to get ahead. They prioritize self-care.

They understand the importance of taking care of their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. They take breaks when necessary, they have hobbies outside of work, and they make sure to fit exercise into their schedule.

One of my friends, for example, is a top executive in her company. Despite her busy schedule, she always finds time for a quick morning run or yoga session. She says it’s her way of maintaining balance and ensuring she’s at her best when it’s time to work.

Taking a leaf from her book, I started to incorporate self-care into my routine too. And trust me, it made a world of difference!

3) They embrace their failures

Failure. The very word used to send shivers down my spine. I used to see it as the ultimate disgrace, a sign that I just wasn’t good enough.

But here’s a hard truth I’ve learned: Failure is a part of life.

The women who always seem to get ahead? They’ve failed, probably more times than you can imagine. But what sets them apart is how they react to failure.

Instead of wallowing in self-pity or giving up, they take it in stride. They see each failure as a learning opportunity, a stepping stone to future success.

They’re not afraid to analyze their missteps, learn from them, and then move on. It’s this resilience and optimism that propels them forward while others are still stuck in the past dwelling on their shortcomings.

4) They build strong networks

“Networking” can sometimes feel like a dirty word.

It might bring up images of insincere, self-serving individuals, hobnobbing at events, and handing out business cards left and right. But let’s redefine what networking means.

The women who always seem to get ahead understand that networking isn’t about taking—it’s about giving. It’s about building genuine relationships based on mutual respect and support.

They’re not just looking for what they can get out of a connection; they’re also thinking about what they can offer. They show genuine interest in others, listen more than they talk, and look for ways to help others succeed.

Building this kind of network doesn’t just serve them in their careers; it also enriches their lives in countless other ways.

5) They’re lifelong learners

Did you know that the most successful CEO’s read an average of 60 books a year?

It’s no coincidence. Women who always seem to get ahead have a deep-rooted love for learning. They’re constantly seeking to broaden their knowledge, hone their skills, and stay updated with the latest trends in their field.

They don’t see learning as something that ends once you leave school. Rather, they view it as a lifelong journey. They’re curious, open-minded, and always up for a challenge.

Whether it’s reading books, attending seminars, or taking online courses, they find ways to continually grow and evolve.

6) They practice empathy

Have you ever had a conversation with someone where you felt truly seen and heard?

It’s a powerful feeling, isn’t it?

Women who always seem to get ahead know the power of empathy. They understand that success isn’t just about individual achievements; it’s also about building strong, positive relationships with others.

They take the time to listen, to understand, and to acknowledge the feelings and perspectives of others. They show kindness and compassion, not just in their personal lives, but also in their professional interactions.

By practicing empathy, they’re able to build deeper connections and foster a supportive environment where everyone feels valued.

7) They believe in themselves

Here’s the thing.

You can have all the knowledge, skills, and connections in the world, but if you don’t believe in yourself, you’re not going to get very far.

Women who always seem to get ahead have an unwavering belief in their abilities. They trust their decisions, value their worth, and don’t let self-doubt hold them back.

They set ambitious goals, and they pursue them with determination and confidence. They don’t wait for others to validate them; they know their worth and they’re not afraid to show it.

Believe in yourself. Trust your instincts, value your worth, and never let fear or doubt hold you back. Because at the end of the day, you are your biggest advocate.

The final reflection

So, there we have it.

The subtle behaviors that set those women apart who always seem to get ahead. It’s not about being cutthroat or stepping on others. It’s about self-belief, continuous learning, empathy, and building genuine relationships.

But remember, it’s not a race. Each individual has their own pace and growth trajectory. It’s never about comparing yourself to others but about being a better version of yourself than you were yesterday.