“If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.”
- October 13, 1925 – April 8, 2013
- British
- Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Politician, “The Iron Lady”
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Quote
“If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.”
Explanation
This quote by Margaret Thatcher is a bold affirmation of women’s capability, decisiveness, and effectiveness, especially in contrast to the more rhetorical or performative tendencies she attributes to men. It reflects her belief that women are often more practical, action-oriented, and resilient, particularly when it comes to getting results. The phrase captures her admiration for substance over style, and her view that real work is often carried out by those who are underestimated or overlooked.
As the first woman to serve as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Thatcher consistently broke gender norms, not through feminist activism, but through demonstrated competence and steely leadership. Her own career exemplified this quote—she not only articulated strong ideas, but also pushed through controversial reforms, led Britain during the Falklands War, and restructured the economy, often in the face of considerable resistance. She saw action, not talk, as the true measure of leadership.
In today’s world, the quote continues to resonate as a challenge to gender stereotypes and a celebration of women’s effectiveness, particularly in fields where they remain underrepresented. It underscores the idea that leadership is not about who speaks the loudest, but about who delivers real change. Thatcher’s words remain a tribute to the often-unseen strength and determination of women, and a reminder that true power lies in action, not appearance.
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