Mimi Ho @KoraTrades: "𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐤 I’m finally doing..."

Australia

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐤 I’m finally doing the unthinkable and sharing my thoughts on gender in the world of finance. I don’t personally see gender anymore when I work, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t challenging at first. I’m very aware that it’s still a big topic of discussion and something that still needs navigating. This post was inspired by someone in my community who asked how I felt at this year’s 𝐞𝐓𝐨𝐫𝐨 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭 as a woman (which was about 90% men). Saturdays are for reflecting, so here is my take. Strap in. I do believe this topic shouldn't live only in women’s groups. Inclusion matters just as much as safe spaces. And you can’t talk about inclusion without understanding both sides. I always say our perceptions shape our behaviour. So understanding the psychology behind all this is key. Men are raised to compete, to ‘hunt’, to win. That level of expectation creates immense pressure and pressure can create insecurity. The stronger the insecurity, the louder the person (usually). I’ve always said there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Women often read this as being pushed out or looked down on. And yes, I won’t pretend that doesn’t happen. But sometimes it’s simply an environment where men are triggered by their own anxieties. People who feel insecure look for what they perceive as the “weaker” target, and biologically, women as a whole are physically weaker than men. That perception has been ingrained in humans on a subconscious level since the beginning of time. You could argue women drew the short straw. But you could also argue that men did too. Women are often underestimated from the moment they walk into the room. Men are expected to succeed from the moment they are born (a lot of pressure there). Which is why many men don’t talk openly about feelings or mental health. They were never allowed to be seen as “weak”. Men therefore carry a lot of emotional weight silently and that silence can come with serious consequences. Understanding this shaped the way I carried myself and the way I interacted with others. Instead of trying to push back against the energy in the room, I leaned in. I focused on the human behind the behaviour. Instead of feeling inferior, I became curious. And when curiosity replaced defensiveness I became more comfortable. And with comfort came confidence.  These days I can confidently speak about topics I know and just as confidently admit when I don’t understand. What I realised is that people enjoy teaching and helping. When you ask questions, you give them that opportunity. Studies have also shown that asking for help or favours makes you more likeable.  Women also play a role in this without realising it. Our own insecurities can turn into a self fulfilling prophecy. When we hold back, don’t speak up, hesitate, it can signal “weakness”. We tend to think things through more often, which is a strength, but it can easily turn into overthinking that can stop us from moving forward and taking a seat at the table with the “big boys”.  This of course doesn’t apply to every individual, but you can see the patterns. And these patterns feed a vicious cycle. Fortunately, one that is slowly breaking.  𝐒𝐨 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭, how did I feel at the eToro summit in rooms dominated by men? I felt heard, acknowledged and equal. Not solely based on how I was treated, but based on how I read the room which ultimately guided my behaviour.  If both sides understood the challenges each carries, we would see more change across the industry. And with that, I want to express gratitude. My network has shaped my perspective. The men and women who welcomed me in, included me and helped me build confidence in this environment have played a huge role in how I see things now. Thank you. 👩🏻‍💻☕️ $BTC $SPX500 $XRP

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