Break Barriers
Ready — Katharine Graham never set out to become a CEO. In fact, she once described herself as timid, unsure, and comfortable being in the background. But when her husband died in 1963, Graham found herself at the helm of a Fortune 500 giant in a male-dominated world— The Washington Post Company.
Set — Graham was untested, untrained, and, by her own admission, terrified. Yet opportunity often calls unlikely leaders to rise in unlikely times. Over the next two decades, she led The Washington Post through one of the most turbulent and triumphant eras in American journalism. Under her leadership, the paper published the Pentagon Papers, broke the Watergate scandal, and became a beacon of integrity.
How did she do it? Graham . . .
Answered the Call: Graham didn’t feel ready but she said yes. Leadership starts with obedience, not certainty.
Grew into the Role: Instead of pretending to know it all, she listened, learned, and leaned on wise counsel.
Stood Firm in Crisis: When the Watergate story threatened to shake the company, Graham backed her reporters, defended the truth, and never flinched.
Brought Courage to the Culture: Her steady hand and principled leadership shaped a bold, truth-telling newsroom.
Broke Barriers by Being Herself: Graham led through her own personality, and history took notice.
Grow! — Leadership isn’t always about having the loudest voice in the room. Sometimes it’s about staying steady, speaking the truth, and growing through the unknown. Whether you feel ready or not, given opportunity you can lead with courage, clarity, and conviction. Remember: You may not feel ready but take the opportunity when it comes. You can grow into it.
Two Questions
Are you hesitating to take charge because of fear or self-doubt?
How can you cultivate courage to lead now?