In a recent LC White Paper Series, “Understanding the Differences in Reactive and Creative Orientations Between Female and Male Leaders,” data shows that creative leaders’ behaviors flow from their values and purpose, rather than from a set of assumptions about how leaders are supposed to behave. Creative Competencies, the authors found, are highly researched and validated effective leadership competencies around the world, including the tenets of relating, self-awareness, authenticity, systems awareness and achieving.

It appears as if the days of male leadership dominance may be changing. For the first time in history last year, women CEOs lead about 10% of Fortune 500 companies. In a “The Ready-Now Leaders” report from the Conference Board, organizations with at least 30% women in leadership roles are 12x more likely to be in the top 20% for financial performance.

While the arc of leadership may be bending slightly in women’s favor, the state of women entrepreneurship continues to shine. According to recent QuickBooks data, nearly 4 in 10 US businesses are women-owned, accounting for more than 14 million businesses. The data also shows that more than 6 in 10 women business owners started their business within the last four years, compared to 5 in 10 men.

To help complement our cover story, “Thrive. Inspire. Connect. See How These Five Business Owners are Redefining Community,” we sat down with three noted entrepreneur thought leaders and business owners to get their insights on doing your own thing.

Read each story by clicking below.