The Role of Resilience for Women Entrepreneurs and Leaders

This study investigates the presence and importance of resilience to women entrepreneurs and leaders. Five women from Connecticut ranging in age, experience, education, and fields of work were interviewed to gain an understanding of the challenges of a leadership position or entrepreneurial career, and the role that resilience has played. Semi-structured interviews were used which allowed an in-depth exploration of their successes, struggles, and prior education and training for the roles held. Interviewees also provided recommendations and insights for other women pursuing entrepreneurship and/or leadership. All five interviewees agreed that to be successful in their positions, and even obtain their current positions, resilience skills played a foundational role, as they must confront challenges daily. In conclusion, women professionals may benefit from participating in specialized resilience training which addresses the challenges unique to women’s perseverance in highly competitive careers to promote healthy habits in the work environment, and resources to preserver during challenges.