I still remember early in my leadership journey when I felt utterly alone at the top. 

I was in my dream leadership role, yet I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. 

I realized that while managing my tasks, I was missing out on genuine connection—those meaningful conversations about the real challenges and triumphs of leadership.

It wasn’t until I sought a community of like-minded leaders that I truly started to thrive.

If any of these signs resonate with you, here are seven clear indicators that as a Black woman leader in higher education, you might need a community to support and uplift your leadership journey.

You Feel Isolated Even When Surrounded by People

Have you ever sat in a boardroom or attended a networking event and felt utterly alone? 

Despite being surrounded by colleagues, there’s a distinct feeling of isolation when no one truly “gets” the unique challenges you face as a woman executive. 

I’ve been there—sometimes, the pressure to prove yourself means you keep your struggles to yourself, only to realize later how much you could have benefited from honest, supportive conversation.

Daily Chaos Leaves You Drained

Picture this: your phone vibrates every few minutes, meetings run over time, and you constantly shift between tasks. 

When the day ends, you wonder where all your energy went and whether you accomplished anything significant. 

The relentless pace can sap your motivation and leave little room for strategic thinking. If you constantly battle chaos and feel overwhelmed, it might be a sign that you need a community to share ideas and coping strategies.

You’re Missing Out on Diverse Perspectives

Diverse viewpoints enrich leadership, but you might miss out on fresh insights if your circle is too narrow. 

You risk stagnation when you don’t have a network that challenges your assumptions or offers new ideas. I learned that some of the best breakthroughs came from conversations with leaders from different backgrounds or industries. 

If you feel your decision-making is becoming one-dimensional, a broader community could catalyze innovation.

Emotional Burnout Is Starting to Set In

Let’s face it—executive roles can be incredibly demanding. When you’re constantly “on,” the risk of burnout isn’t just high; it’s inevitable. 

If you feel emotionally and physically drained, it’s a red flag that you need support. A community of leaders can provide practical advice and emotional support, helping you recharge and maintain resilience in challenging times.

You Struggle to Find Mentors Who Understand Your Journey

Finding mentors who truly understand the unique pressures of being a woman executive—especially as a Black woman—can feel nearly impossible. 

When navigating a path that few have walked, having someone who can offer honest, empathetic guidance is invaluable. If you wish for more seasoned advice tailored to your experiences, it’s time to expand your network.

You Crave Honest, Authentic Conversation

Sometimes, you just need to talk—about the wins, the losses, and everything in between. If you’re yearning for a space to share your victories and vulnerabilities without fear of judgment, that’s a clear sign. 

Authentic conversations are the backbone of a supportive community. They help you feel less alone and provide insights and encouragement to propel you forward.

Embracing the Power of Community

If these signs sound familiar, you’re not alone—leadership isn’t meant to be a solo journey. When you join a community of like-minded women executives, you gain diverse perspectives, real-world experience, and a safe space to share challenges and triumphs. That support can transform isolation into empowerment and stress into strategic growth.

I invite you to join our exclusive Facebook group for women executives in higher education—a place where we connect, share real talk, and navigate our chaotic days together. You don’t have to face the overwhelming pressures of leadership alone. By sharing your experiences and gaining fresh insights, you set the stage for lasting success for yourself and everyone you lead.

Let’s turn chaos into connection and every challenge into an opportunity for growth. Together, we can build a leadership community that empowers us all to thrive.