Sexism in the workplace: How it shows up in 2023

The persistent presence of sexism in the workplace corrodes women's belief in their abilities and inherent strength. Enduring this toxicity takes an immense toll on mental well-being, slowly eroding women's confidence and sense of self over time.

Entering the job with eagerness quickly becomes an uphill battle. Constant belittlement, the need for repeated validation, and incessant interruptions become the norm. Her innovative ideas are dismissed, ridiculed, while her conduct is scrutinized unfairly. She's labeled "bossy" or "overbearing," nudged to conform to traditional feminine traits.

And then, the theft occurs. Her concept, initially criticized, is usurped by someone else who takes credit for her hard work. Witnessing the company laud the man who stole her idea becomes a bitter reality.

Many women silently endure, burying their frustration as they toil away during the day, only to find solace in wine at night, attempting to quell the simmering anger while bracing for another day supporting men who don't deserve their backing. They internalize the insults and setbacks, enduring the thankless role they've been assigned.

Those who challenge this system, who dare to say "Enough!," face severe consequences. The weight of the patriarchy descends upon them. Flattery turns to competition, aimed at discrediting and sabotaging their efforts.

Her refusal to stay silent is seen as a threat. Her competence and efficiency pose a direct challenge to the incompetence and mediocrity of some men. Her mere presence threatens their ability to coast by unnoticed, doing subpar work.

Meanwhile, other women in the organization, preoccupied with providing for their families, watch her struggles with fear, often distancing themselves and, tragically, joining in the criticism. This isolation further wounds a woman already battered by the constraints of the glass ceiling.

Despite her hard-earned achievements, she's offered only half the raise she deserves, deliberately keeping her in a state of perpetual need. Conversely, men with no competency are promoted, expecting the "support staff" – predominantly women – to clean up their messes.

Driven by the false notion of a level playing field, she pushes harder, seeking improvement, blaming herself for the systemic issues ingrained in the workplace.

When she finally voices the injustices, she's handed a pink slip, an NDA, and hush money. Not content with stealing her dignity and livelihood, they seek to silence her voice.