“Women need to shift from thinking ‘I’m not ready to do that’ to thinking ‘I want to do that – and I’ll learn by doing it.'”
This powerful statement from Sheryl Sandberg, former COO of Meta and author of Lean In, addresses a critical mindset barrier. It challenges the internal voice of doubt that often holds people back, particularly women, in their professional lives. The quote is not just motivational. Instead, it serves as a practical guide for reframing how we approach new opportunities. It advocates for a fundamental shift from a passive state of waiting for perfection to an active state of pursuing ambition. This simple change in perspective can unlock incredible growth and achievement.
The “Readiness Trap” and the Confidence Gap
The feeling of being “not ready” is a common experience. When faced with a promotion, a challenging project, or a new role, self-doubt can easily creep in. This mindset, often called the “readiness trap,” is rooted in perfectionism and impostor syndrome. We believe we must possess every single qualification before taking a step forward. However, this pursuit of perfect preparedness often leads to inaction. Opportunities pass us by while we wait for a level of readiness that may never arrive. True readiness, ironically, is often forged in the very experiences we are avoiding.
Why Waiting for Perfection Holds You Back
This hesitation contributes significantly to what experts call the “confidence gap.” Research highlights a stark difference in how men and women often approach career opportunities. A frequently cited internal report revealed a telling statistic about job application behaviors. This data vividly illustrates Sandberg’s point. Waiting for 100% certainty means missing out on roles where you could learn and grow. Source
This trap isn’t about a lack of competence. It is about a lack of confidence to proceed without having every box checked. The cost of this hesitation is immense, limiting both individual careers and organizational diversity.
Shifting Focus to “I Want To Do That”
Sandberg’s proposed solution is transformative because of its simplicity. Shifting your focus to “I want to do that” reorients your entire perspective. It moves your attention away from your perceived flaws and onto your goals and ambitions. This is a crucial mental switch. Instead of asking, “Am I good enough?” you begin to ask, “Is this something I truly want?” This question is far more empowering. It connects you with your passion and drive, which are the most powerful fuels for success.
Adopting this mindset gives you permission to pursue things that excite you, even if they scare you. It validates your ambition as a sufficient reason to start. You do not need a perfect plan or a complete skill set before taking the first step. The commitment to the goal itself becomes the catalyst for acquiring the necessary knowledge and abilities along the way.
The Power of “Learning by Doing”
The final clause of the quote is the most actionable: “…and I’ll learn by doing it.” This idea is the ultimate antidote to the paralysis of perfectionism. It champions a growth mindset, a concept that suggests abilities are not fixed but can be developed through hard work and dedication. This perspective reframes challenges as learning opportunities rather than tests of your inherent worth. When you embrace learning by doing, you accept that you will not have all the answers at the beginning. And, more importantly, you recognize that this is completely normal.
Practical Steps to Learn on the Go
How can you put this into practice? First, break down large, intimidating goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. This makes the entire endeavor feel less daunting and provides clear next steps. Second, actively seek feedback throughout the process. Ask mentors, leaders, and peers for guidance to accelerate your learning curve. Finally, learn to reframe mistakes. View them not as failures but as essential data points that provide valuable lessons. By taking action, you create a positive feedback loop. You act, you learn, you build confidence, and you become ready to take on even bigger challenges.
In summary, Sheryl Sandberg’s advice provides a powerful framework for career advancement. Moving from “I’m not ready” to “I want to do that” is a strategic choice. It is about consciously trading self-doubt for ambition and inaction for experience. By embracing the idea that you can and will learn as you go, you open the door to a world of new possibilities. The next time a challenge arises, don’t ask if you’re ready. Ask if you want it.