I think the problem is, exceptional women will always succeed. But there are plenty of less-exceptional men who succeed. Until we get the less-exceptional women succeeding equally, we do not have full equality.

In this quote, Cherie Blair, a prominent British barrister and wife of former Prime Minister Tony Blair, addresses the issue of gender equality in the workplace. She argues that while exceptional women are able to break through barriers and succeed, there are still less-exceptional men who are able to achieve success. Blair’s point is that true gender equality will not be achieved until average women—those who may not be extraordinary but who have the potential and qualifications—have the same opportunities to succeed as their male counterparts. Her statement critiques the societal and institutional biases that allow men, regardless of their level of exceptionalism, to advance more easily than women.

Blair’s comment also sheds light on the structural inequalities that persist in many professional fields, where women often have to be exceptionally talented or accomplished to succeed, while men—regardless of their qualifications or abilities—can attain positions of power or influence. She highlights that this disparity is a key indicator that true equality has not yet been reached. Her call for less-exceptional women to succeed equally with men speaks to the need for systemic changes that provide equal opportunities for all women, regardless of their perceived exceptionalism.

By using the terms "exceptional" and "less-exceptional," Blair is pointing out that women's success in many fields is often tied to an extraordinary level of competence or accomplishment. In contrast, men who are not necessarily exceptional are more likely to receive opportunities, promotions, and success. This imbalance reinforces the idea that equality is not just about allowing a few exceptional women to rise to the top, but about creating an environment where average women can also thrive and be judged on the same merit as their male colleagues.

The origin of this quote comes from Cherie Blair’s longstanding advocacy for women's rights and her personal experience as a successful professional in a male-dominated field. As a barrister and public figure, Blair has long been an advocate for gender equality, particularly in legal and political spheres. This quote reflects her commitment to equal opportunities for women and her recognition that full equality can only be achieved when success is accessible to all women, regardless of their exceptional qualities.