In 'A Uterus Is a Feature, Not a Bug,' Sarah Lacy boldly challenges societal norms about women's roles in the workforce and the perception of motherhood. With sharp wit and personal anecdotes, she argues that motherhood should be celebrated as an asset, not an obstacle. Lacy explores the systemic biases that undermine women’s contributions, advocating for a world that values diversity in leadership. This book isn't just a critique; it's a manifesto for change, calling on both women and men to rethink their assumptions. Engage with this thought-provoking narrative that empowers women to reclaim their narrative in the corporate world.
By Sarah Lacy
Published: 2017
""The uterus doesn't define our capabilities; it's simply one piece of the intricate puzzle of our existence, reminding us that our worth isn't dictated by biology but by our choices and actions.""
A rallying cry for working mothers everywhere that demolishes the "distracted, emotional, weak" stereotype and definitively shows that these professionals are more focused, decisive, and stronger than any other force. Working mothers aren’t a liability. They are assets you—and every manager and executive—want in your company, in your investment portfolio, and in your corner. There is copious academic research showing the benefits of working mothers on families and the benefits to companies who give women longer and more flexible parental leave. There are even findings that demonstrate women with multiple children actually perform better at work than those with none or one. Yet despite this concrete proof that working mothers are a lucrative asset, they still face the "Maternal Wall"—widespread unconscious bias about their abilities, contributions, and commitment. Nearly eighty percent of women are less likely to be hired if they have children—and are half as likely to be promoted. Mothers earn an average $11,000 less in salary and are held to higher punctuality and performance standards. Forty percent of Silicon Valley women said they felt the need to speak less about their family to be taken more seriously. Many have been told that having a second child would cost them a promotion. Fortunately, this prejudice is slowly giving way to new attitudes, thanks to more women starting their own businesses, and companies like Netflix, Facebook, Apple, and Google implementing more parent-friendly policies. But the most important barrier to change isn’t about men. Women must rethink the way they see themselves after giving birth. As entrepreneur Sarah Lacy makes clear in this cogent, persuasive analysis and clarion cry, the strongest, most lucrative, and most ambitious time of a woman’s career may easily be after she sees a plus sign on a pregnancy test.
Sarah Lacy is an accomplished journalist, author, and entrepreneur known for her deep insights into technology and entrepreneurship. She is the founder and CEO of Lacy, a media company that highlights disruptive innovation and the future of work. Lacy is the author of several notable works, including "Brilliant, Crazy, Cocky: How the World's Best Entrepreneurs Pitch Their Innovative Ideas and Build Successful Companies" and "The Cult of the Customer: A New Era of Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty." Her writing style is characterized by a blend of analytical rigor and engaging storytelling, making complex subjects accessible to a wide audience. Lacy's work has appeared in prominent publications such as Forbes and TechCrunch, and she is a sought-after speaker at industry conferences.
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“"The uterus doesn't define our capabilities; it's simply one piece of the intricate puzzle of our existence, reminding us that our worth isn't dictated by biology but by our choices and actions."”
A Uterus Is a Feature, Not a Bug
By Sarah Lacy
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