Only in recent history has a woman’s success even been considered a realization. Although women have the controlling share of the current “spend”, racking up over 2.5 trillion dollars in revenues through women-owned business, we still tend to struggle with the concept of our own career success. While we may look successful, the psychology of success for women runs much deeper. Our very nature assigns our gender to find the greatest success in developing and maintaining positive and harmonious relationships. However, for the first time in history, we are now competing on very different terms, in very critical ways, often getting lost in what we truly wish to achieve. Here are five strategies to assist in navigating around those obstacles that may be interrupting your success!

Strategy One: Express your authentic self.

Once we are comfortable with whomever we see in the “mirror” as we evolve throughout our lives, we become better equipped to live authentically, honoring our own independent choices, and moving from a victim of our own shortcomings to a champion of our own successes.

Strategy Two: Establish an ideal reputation.

A stellar reputation will keep your career afloat during times of uncertainty. A large part of this reputation is the result of belonging to like-minded groups. Creating a reputation in the career world is the same as creating (and sustaining) a reputation within your personal life. Integrate these two worlds.

Strategy Three: Toot your own horn.

Presenting your personal and professional value to others is an important part of getting the recognition that we deserve for our ideas, our contribution and our gifts. We want to been seen for what we have to offer, not be taken for granted. Avoid expecting others to automatically acknowledge these talents and BLOW your own horn!

Strategy Four: Get the equity.

Equity defines the “just” rewards of your contribution. Whenever you bring talent, energy and enthusiasm to the table and couple these with capability in the job, you should be rewarded in kind. Keep a daily accomplishment journal to remind you of your value.

Strategy Five: Transform and transcend.

Adaptability, flexibility and strength, all a part of our natural skillset, are often called upon when we need to be the courageous visionaries of our own lives. When career and life are no longer in service to our happiness, it is time to re-evaluate what changes must occur. This strategy, perhaps the most difficult, also relies on the four previous strategies we have memorized and utilized so far.