EquipHer Vol. 13: "Owning Your Power With Professional Grace"Sample

Day 1 – Balancing Boldness and Grace

"You can be strong, decisive, and lead with authority – without losing your grace."

During a recent EquipHer Instagram Live session featuring Kirsten Grove, an entrepreneur and thriving business owner, we learned how she faces a similar challenge many of us do: balancing authoritativeness and kindness as a business leader.

Working in a male dominant industry, Kirsten shared how important it is to enter every meeting or gathering with the understanding that while respect from others isn't always guaranteed, knowing your true acceptance is found in Christ, rather than others, is where true confidence lies. Prior to each meeting, Kirsten takes a moment to turn to God, and asks for grace, wisdom, and discernment in asserting her authority with both boldness and kindness.

This approach perfectly reflects Proverbs 31:25: "She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future."

In addition to prayer, here are some practical ways we can implement being a confident, yet, kind leader:

1. Assertiveness with Humility: Remember that being authoritative doesn't mean being aggressive. Asserting your position calmly and firmly, while maintaining a gentle attitude, can shift the atmosphere of an entire meeting.
2. Observe & Adapt: Take note of the dynamics in your workplace. If you sense a lack of respect, take a moment to reflect, rather than react, and take action without compromising your values.
3. Recognize Your Worth: Remember that your professional power comes from your identity in Christ; this makes you unique and indispensable, regardless of any biases you may encounter.

Reflective Questions

• In what work situations do we find ourselves needing to assert our value decisively while maintaining humility?
• How can we, like Kirsten, ask God for the grace and discernment to handle situations where respect for our role is lacking?

Prayer
Lord, in this moment, I turn to You, asking for guidance in my work journey. Help me to unite the strength and grace You have given me and to bring forth my authority in every situation with kindness and firmness. Grant me wisdom and discernment to face the daily challenges, so that my actions may always testify of Your love and my identity in You. Amen.