This past summer I was fortunate to be invited to an event hosted by The Demureist called WomenLead. It was a lovely event all about socializing with savvy women, discussing issues we encounter as leaders in business and fashion, and celebrating female entrepreneurship!

I was invited to speak on the topic of overthinking -- specifically, what happens when we spark a new idea, but allow self-doubt and self-fear to put it out before it has a chance to catch. You know the feeling.

I hear from women all the time who have a dream they're afraid to chase, and I've felt that way myself too. While preparing for this event, I actually did some reading into the psychology behind this. As kids, we're like little geniuses, exploring the world freely and without inhibition. Over time, the limitations placed on us by our parents (and the world in general) teach us to doubt our ideas rather than try something new.

As women, there's an extra layer of this. Many of us are socialized to be perfectionists, not risk-takers, and to not do things until we are sure we can do them perfectly. Of course, there's nothing wrong with being cautious, but we should be aware too of how this socialized tendency to doubt ourselves can ultimately hold us back if we don't keep it in check.

Oh, and I also ran into some fellow Haute Hijabis while I was there! Above left I'm pictured with Suzy Said (who you'll remember as HOTM July 2016!). On the right I'm with Nadia (right) in the Earl Grey Bloom Scarf and Aaisha in the Birds of Paradise Scarf.

It was a wonderful afternoon of important conversations and socializing with some amazing women leaders and entrepreneurs. Thanks again to The Demureist for having me!