Coming from a historically male-dominated, patriarchal culture where the role of women was often minimized and they were relegated to domestic duties, Latina professionals had to overcome these negative messages in order to succeed in corporate environments.  In order to overcome their own internalized perceptions and the narrow expectations from their families and communities, they had to learn to understand the dynamics they encountered and be extremely creative in devising strategies for transforming themselves and others.  Circular vision provided them with the insight and creativity to anticipate barriers and find ways through, around, over or under these limitations. http://www.glennllopis.com/2011/04/how-you-can-profit-from-thomas-edisons-inventions.html

Hearing that their dreams were too ambitious or that “no one’s ever done that” became a challenge rather than a final sentence. 

Whether achieving their academic goals or finding career success, Latinas learned that they had to forge their own ways rather than relying on successful role models or mentors who would coach them through their difficulties.

http://www.catalyst.org/publication/48/advancing-latinas-in-the-workplace-what-managers-need-to-know

 In today’s workplace, these same skills for anticipating problems and finding out-of-the-box solutions are desperately needed.  Rather than waiting for others to show them the way, engaged Latinas take the initiative to explore new options and develop creative strategies for addressing stubborn business dilemmas.  The experiences that they had growing up in Latino families and challenges they faced in achieving their goals have strengthened and deepened their determination and willingness to do whatever it takes to get things done.

 These life experiences and capacities have the potential to become competitive advantages for organizations smart enough to capitalize on them. (Link to: Gallegos, P. V., Ferdman, B.M. (2007).  Latino Identity Orientations: Implications for Leaders and Organizations.  The Business Journal of Hispanic Research)

 Latinas circular vision can be relied upon to search out new opportunities and engage old problems in ways that further advance organizational innovation and success.  How do Latinas experiences and perspectives allow them to see what others may miss?  Ask a Latina and be prepared to listen and learn!