I can’t believe a movie has not been made about this woman leader. In the annals of history, some remarkable individuals defy convention and leave an indelible mark on society. One such noteworthy leader was Pharaoh Hatshepsut, an ancient Egyptian queen who shattered gender norms to become the second woman pharaoh and one of the most successful kings in the nation’s history. Cleopatra stood on her shoulders.
Who Is Pharaoh Hatshepsut?
Born in the 15th century BCE, Hatshepsut was the daughter of Pharaoh Thutmose I. When her husband died, she became Queen regent for her stepson Thutmose III who was too young to rule. However, instead of relinquishing power after his maturity, Hatshepsut declared herself Pharaoh, adopting a male persona and donning the traditional pharaoh’s regalia. Her reign lasted over two decades, leading Egypt to unprecedented prosperity and stability. And before you @ her, she ruled with her son’s blessings because he preferred to be out and about conquering in her name. Though, when he rose to the throne, he attempted to erase her from history.
This is her funerary temple. This is really hard to erase. Seriously #bossmoves. I have visited her temple and this picture doesn’t do it justice. Her tomb resides in the Valley of the Kings.
Not unlike today, as a woman leader, historians tried to cast her as a power-hungry stepmother ruled by her ambitions. But, as they dug into her history and uncovered the true story, it was revealed that her reign, characterized by visionary leadership and strategic decision-making, offers valuable lessons for leaders in any era.
Here are three lessons we can learn from her legacy.
Lesson 1: Embrace Visionary Thinking
Hatshepsut’s reign exemplifies the importance of visionary thinking. She envisioned a prosperous and powerful Egypt and took bold steps to realize her vision. One of her most significant achievements was the expedition to the land of Punt, which brought back exotic goods and resources, strengthening Egypt’s economy and influence.
As leaders, we must inspire our team with a clear vision and think beyond the usual boundaries. We must also have the courage to pursue ambitious goals that motivate our team to follow us. Without a clear direction, our team members may become disengaged and wait for their next opportunity instead of contributing to the team’s success.
Lesson 2: Foster Collaboration and Inclusion
Hatshepsut understood the power of collaboration and inclusivity in driving success. Despite facing opposition as a female pharaoh, she skillfully built a network of loyal advisors and officials who supported her reign, both men and women. She empowered her subordinates and entrusted them with responsibilities, enabling them to contribute to the kingdom’s growth.
Leaders today should learn from her example and create inclusive environments that encourage diverse perspectives, promote teamwork, and value the contributions of every individual…even when you disagree with them.
Lesson 3: Leadership is a Transfer of Energy
Throughout her reign, Hatshepsut displayed unwavering integrity and authenticity. Instead of concealing her true identity, she embraced her femininity while successfully navigating the patriarchal society of ancient Egypt. She balanced the feminine and masculine energies in her dress and demeanor.
Though she carried the crook and flail and wore the Pharoah’s regalia from the waist up, she wore Queen’s jewelry and clothing from the waist down. She leaned into whichever energy served her purpose best. By doing so, she garnered respect and admiration from her subjects, who recognized her genuine commitment to their welfare.
Leaders understand that leadership isn’t a series of demands or about controlling others. It is a transfer of energy.
Think about it. Do you listen more to someone who speaks calmly or to someone who is shouting? You hear the words of the shouter, but do you listen? Leaders can inspire, create a sense of calm urgency, and telegraph authority all by shifting their energy using their demeanor and words. True leaders determine the outcome they desire and then consider how to bring out the best in those they lead and even their peers.
Though her history is complicated and often conflicting, Pharaoh Hatshepsut’s reign continues to inspire and offer invaluable leadership lessons even after millennia have passed. Her visionary thinking, collaborative approach, and unwavering authenticity serve as timeless reminders for leaders today. By embracing these principles, we can forge our paths to success and lead our organizations to new heights. Further, stop categorizing leadership as the way a man or woman leads and think about the balance of feminine and masculine energy. You will see better results.
