I had “Gold Star” credentials and was multilingual, yet I had neither the language for advocating for my own potential nor the confidence to do it.

In hindsight, I saw I was caught in Chronic Overachiever Trap (aka the Good Girl Trap).

After working with so many women of color in executive roles, I’ve come to recognize the pattern immediately.

It feels like an under-the-radar tug-of-war between:

1. Your chronic need to prove yourself to decision-makers and

2. Decision-makers who tighten their grip, drag their feet, and withhold approval — even when you’ve exceeded expectations.

And the harder you pull to demonstrate value, competence, and good faith… …the tighter their end of the rope feels.