Rising Through: My Thoughts on Leadership, Challenge & Opportunity
In Honor of International Women’s Day
This month, I had the honor of being featured by the Seattle Seahawks through their Small Business Partnership, as part of a series highlighting women in leadership for International Women’s Day.
When they asked me to speak about the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a woman in business, I took a moment to really think. Because, to be honest — I don’t always approach my work from the lens of being a woman. I just show up… as me.
I Lead With Intention — Always
I’ve never wanted to be defined by a label or a limitation. I believe in showing up with purpose, leading with clarity, and being the kind of leader who brings others up with her.
That’s why a quote from Eleanor Roosevelt has always resonated deeply with me:
“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
That truth has carried me through many seasons — the high-pressure ones, the quiet rebuilding ones, and the bold new chapters. When we give too much focus to what holds us back, we allow those things to shape our direction. But when we shift our focus to what’s possible… everything opens up.
Focus on the Opportunity, Not the Obstacle
I’ve learned that challenges are inevitable. In business, in leadership, in life — roadblocks will come. But I’ve also learned that we get to choose what we give our energy to.
I’ve made a conscious decision not to let challenges consume me. Instead, I ask:
- What is the opportunity in this?
- How can I grow through it?
- What’s on the other side of this hurdle?
That mindset has allowed me to stay nimble, forward-thinking, and rooted in optimism — not because it’s easy, but because it’s necessary.
What Keeps Me Going
It’s this perspective — this relentless hope and problem-solving spirit — that fuels my journey. Whether I’m navigating leadership decisions, growing a business, or collaborating with a team, I believe there is always a way forward. Around, through, over — progress is always possible.
That belief has kept me moving even on the days when doubt creeps in or things feel uncertain.
A Note of Gratitude
To the Seattle Seahawks Small Business Partnership team — thank you. Thank you for celebrating women in business, for shining a light on the stories that matter, and for creating a space where honest, powerful conversations can unfold.
Here’s to the Women Who Rise
To every woman reading this — whether you lead a business, a family, a community, or just yourself right now — I see you.
Here’s to the ones who keep showing up. Who lead with grit and grace. Who make moves even when it’s hard. Who rise not in spite of the challenges, but because they’ve learned how to face them, grow from them, and keep going.
You are the movement. You are the moment.
Jennifer Schielke
Check out the original feature shared by the Seattle Seahawks Small Business Partnership in celebration of International Women’s Day.
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