The enduring significance of commemorating milestones women achieve remains evident, exemplified by instances such as movie director Greta Gerwig's remarkable accomplishment. She has etched her name in history as the inaugural female director to independently helm the hit film, Barbie, which achieved an unprecedented feat by amassing a remarkable $1 billion at the box office. This achievement is a testament to the relentless progress of professional women marking a momentous stride toward equality and recognition.
In a world where the narrative of female empowerment is evolving, Barbie, the iconic doll with impossible proportions and perpetual optimism, stands as a paradox in the minds of many career-driven women. The juxtaposition between Barbie's idealized aesthetic and the real-life aspirations of modern women creates a thought-provoking dichotomy that challenges societal norms and prompts us to delve deeper into the layers of perception, aspiration and empowerment.
Moreover, Barbie's paradox can be seen as a metaphor for the challenges career women face in a world that often pits femininity against professional aspirations. The pressure to project an image that adheres to society's expectations of beauty while simultaneously striving for professional excellence can lead to an unsettling and poignant cognitive dissonance. As career women grapple with these complexities, the Barbie doll becomes a mirror reflecting the intricate layers of their identities and societal perceptions.
Barbie's meticulously designed image, from her long, flowing hair to her impossibly tiny waist, has been a source of inspiration and apprehension for generations of women. The image she portrays embodies an idealized version of femininity that often clashes with the grit and determination required to pursue a successful career. The question arises: Can a doll so deeply entrenched in traditional beauty standards genuinely resonate with women breaking through the glass ceiling?
Triumphs and trials have marked the path to shattering the glass ceiling in financial services, in particular. The industry has long been characterized by a lack of gender diversity at the upper echelons, with women often relegated to support roles rather than positions of influence. However, the persistence of pioneering women has brought about a sea change. As education and opportunities opened up, women proved their skill in financial analysis, investment strategies and risk management, defying preconceived notions about their aptitude in the field.
Women are breaking through the metaphorical ceiling and reshaping the professional landscape with their unwavering determination, exceptional skills and resilience. Their journey toward leadership roles in this traditionally male-dominated industry is an inspiring testament to the power of ambition, breaking norms and challenging systemic bias.
In an example of art imitating life, beneath the veneer of molded plastic and painted-on smiles, an evolution has occurred. The Barbie of today is more diverse, representing a more comprehensive range of ethnicities, body types and careers. This shift acknowledges the need for inclusivity and reflects a changing world where the definition of beauty, gender roles and success are no longer confined to narrow, outdated standards. Career women, aware of the value of representation, might view these changes with cautious optimism—a step towards aligning the doll's image with their ambitions.
Beyond her plastic makeup lies a cultural phenomenon that has sparked debates, inspired discussions and fueled critiques. The very act of engaging with Barbie prompts a reflection on the dynamics between self-perception and external expectations. As Gloria, played by America Ferrera in Barbie, states:
"It is literally impossible to be a woman. You are so beautiful, and so smart, and it kills me that you don't think you're good enough. Like, we have to always be extraordinary, but somehow we're always doing it wrong.
You have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin. You have to say you want to be healthy, but also you have to be thin. You have to have money, but you can't ask for money because that's crass. You have to be a boss, but you can't be mean. You have to lead, but you can't squash other people's ideas. You're supposed to love being a mother, but don't talk about your kids all the damn time. You have to be a career woman but also always be looking out for other people. You have to answer for men's bad behavior, which is insane, but if you point that out, you're accused of complaining. You're supposed to stay pretty for men, but not so pretty that you tempt them too much or that you threaten other women because you're supposed to be a part of the sisterhood.
But always stand out and always be grateful. But never forget that the system is rigged. So find a way to acknowledge that but also always be grateful. You have to never get old, never be rude, never show off, never be selfish, never fall down, never fail, never show fear, never get out of line. It's too hard! It's too contradictory and nobody gives you a medal or says thank you! And it turns out in fact that not only are you doing everything wrong, but also everything is your fault.
I'm just so tired of watching myself and every single other woman tie herself into knots so that people will like us. And if all of that is also true for a doll representing women, then I don't even know." (Source: Gerwig, G. 2023, Barbie, Warner Brothers)
Ultimately, Barbie becomes more than just a doll; she transforms into a canvas onto which women project their aspirations, insecurities and evolving identities. The paradox she embodies catalyzes self-discovery and conversation, pushing career women to challenge their inherited narratives and construct their own definitions of empowerment in financial services. She reminds us that a woman's journey toward success is not a linear path; it's a complex interplay of self-belief, societal influences and the resilience to navigate both. This resilience is paramount for the advancement of women in financial services and hope each one is inspired to take the next steps.
Kaylee Ranck, Ph.D., is the research director for the American College of Financial Services' Center for Women.