You’ve worked hard to build a successful career or business. But have you ever paused to ask yourself: Am I leading with true purpose, or am I simply responding to the pressures around me? Are the expectations on me controlling how I show up and what I do?
For women leaders over 40, these questions are more important than ever. You’re likely thinking about the legacy you’re creating, how your work reflects your values, and whether your leadership – including self-leadership – is aligned with your soul’s purpose.
To help you explore this, here’s a simple yet powerful quiz. Answer honestly (otherwise, what’s the point?), and discover whether your leadership is aligned with your deeper purpose—or if external demands are shaping your path.
Purpose or Pressure Quiz
How do you typically feel at the end of a workday?
a) Energized and fulfilled, knowing my work aligns with my values
b) Tired but satisfied because I checked off everything on my list
c) Drained and wondering if what I did even matters
When making decisions, what drives your choices?
a) A deep inner knowing or alignment with my long-term vision
b) Deadlines, performance metrics, or external expectations
c) Avoiding conflict or pleasing others
How do you handle setbacks or challenges?
a) I reflect on the lesson and adjust while staying aligned with my vision
b) I double down on effort and try to fix the issue immediately
c) I feel stuck or question my abilities, unsure how to move forward
What motivates you to take on new projects or responsibilities?
a) They feel meaningful and aligned with my larger purpose
b) They are strategic steps toward external goals like revenue or recognition
c) I feel obligated or fear missing out on opportunities
How often do you take time to check in with your body and intuition?
a) Regularly—I use them as a compass in decision-making
b) Occasionally—when I remember or feel stressed
c) Rarely—there’s no time for that
How do you approach collaboration with others?
a) I seek partnerships that align with shared values and amplify meaningful outcomes
b) I collaborate when it’s strategic or necessary to achieve goals
c) I often take on too much myself or hesitate to trust others with key responsibilities
How do you nurture creativity in your leadership?
a) I prioritize time for inspiration, reflection, and innovative thinking to guide my work
b) I tap into creativity when solving problems or meeting specific goals
c) I rarely have time to focus on creativity—it feels like a luxury
What is your relationship with success?
a) It’s deeply tied to creating meaningful impact and living authentically
b) It’s about achieving external markers like titles, income, or accolades
c) I’m not sure—I just keep pushing for the next goal
When someone asks about your long-term vision, how do you feel?
a) Excited—I know exactly what I want to create and why
b) Neutral—I have a general idea but focus on short-term priorities
c) Uneasy—I’m unsure if I’m even heading in the right direction
Purpose or Pressure Self-Check:
- Mostly A’s: You are Leading with Purpose
You have a clear connection to your values and purpose, and your decisions reflect a deeper alignment. Keep nurturing this connection to create even greater impact and legacy. - Mostly B’s: You are Balancing Purpose and Pressure
You’re achieving success, but external pressures often guide your choices. Small adjustments, like tuning into your intuition and redefining success on your terms, can help you fully align with your soul purpose. - Mostly C’s: You are Leading from Pressure
Your leadership style is driven by external demands, and it may be leaving you feeling disconnected and unfulfilled. It’s time to reconnect with your deeper values and purpose to rediscover the joy and meaning in your work.
Ready to Align with Your Purpose?
If you’ve discovered gaps between your vision for your life and how you’re doing now, it’s a sign you’re ready to take the next step in your (self) leadership journey. Explore how you can lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose to leave a lasting legacy. Reach out to learn more about the Leadership & Legacy 1:1 mentorship program.