Language is one of the most powerful tools in leadership—and for women, it can be both a bridge and a barrier. In my years coaching female leaders across industries—from finance to education to tech—I’ve seen the same truth play out again and again: Leadership growth begins not with a new title or promotion, but with a shift in vocabulary.
Three simple words—why, so and no—have profound power. They represent three dimensions of effective leadership: curiosity, confidence and boundaries. When women use these words intentionally, they don’t just change how they communicate; they change how they lead.