Research shows that men in comparable positions are much more confident in their capabilities than their male peers even when they are no more competent.

A prime example is that if a man can fulfill 60% of the requirements of a job description, he will apply, while if a woman cannot do the full 100%, she will not.

That goes for even the most ambitious women. Virginia Rometty, IBM ’s CEO, has said that when she was offered a promotion early in her career, she responded, “You know what? I’m not ready for this job.” She reconsidered only when her husband told her that a man would never think that way.

If I were a boy I would believe in myself, have no doubts about my capabilities and raise my hand. I am confident that I can figure out the things I don’t know yet.

Anja Uitdehaag