Think Like a Man, Win Like a Woman -By Fatima Muritala

A few years ago, I faced a career-defining challenge—one that could have ended in disaster if I hadn’t applied logic and strategy. Someone was determined to derail my progress, setting traps designed to provoke me into reacting. But I didn’t take the bait. Instead, I relied on a calculated approach to stay ahead, refusing to let emotions cloud my judgment.

That decision kept me on track and allowed me to emerge stronger.

This experience reinforced a powerful lesson: a woman who masters her emotions and adopts strategic thinking can achieve extraordinary success.

The reality is this: not everyone will like you. The higher you climb, the more opposition you’ll face. But here’s the good news—you don’t have to let adversaries define your path. With the right mindset and strategies, you can outsmart any challenge.

Emotional Regulation: Your Superpower

As women, we are often expected to lead with emotions. But in the world of leadership and success, emotional regulation is a game-changer. A single impulsive reaction can undo years of hard work. Instead of reacting, step back, evaluate the situation, and respond intentionally.

When someone tries to provoke you, it’s often a calculated move designed to expose your vulnerabilities. Recognize this for what it is—a test of your composure and strength. The key is to remain calm and focus on the bigger picture.

Strategic Thinking: The Winning Edge

To succeed in any environment, women must adopt strategic thinking. Men often excel at this because they focus on logic, goals, and collaboration. Here’s how you can do the same:

• Be goal-oriented: Keep your eyes on the bigger picture and don’t get distracted by minor setbacks or provocations.
• Understand power dynamics: Pay attention to relationships and alliances. Who holds influence? Who can help you achieve your goals?
• Collaborate wisely: Learn to work with everyone, including those who may not seem like allies. Success often requires building bridges, even with difficult people.
• Be calculated: Assess risks before taking action. Know your strengths, and don’t reveal your hand too quickly.

The Mind Game

When someone targets you, it’s rarely accidental. People often wait for your shining moments—your breakthroughs or special opportunities—to strike. Why? Because they see these moments as an opportunity to shake your confidence or derail your progress.

The solution? Anticipate their moves. Think logically and strategically about every interaction. Instead of reacting emotionally, ask yourself: “What is their goal, and how can I counter it without compromising my integrity or success?”

Winning the Game

Men often play the long game. A man can dislike you yet smile, shake your hand, or collaborate with you publicly. Women, however, may show discomfort or withdraw, which can unintentionally reveal their cards.

To win, adopt the mindset of a strategist:

• Welcome everyone with diplomacy, even those you suspect may not support you.
• Use observation to gather insights and learn from every interaction.
• Stay composed, no matter what. Your calmness is your greatest strength.

Lead Like a Woman, Think Like a Strategist

This isn’t about changing who you are; it’s about leveraging your natural intelligence, intuition, and logic to navigate life’s challenges. Emotional intelligence, when paired with strategy, is an unstoppable force.

So, women, take this to heart: think like a strategist, lead with intention, and win like a woman. Your power lies in your ability to stay composed, stay focused, and always stay a step ahead.

© Fatima Muritala