International Women’s Day celebrations take place on the 8th March every year. This is a day of global recognition. It highlights the achievements of women around the world, in the areas of social, economic, cultural and political change.
I love the fact that this celebration is not owned by any one government, charity or organisation. It belongs to all of us, and it’s up to us to make it our own.
The Theme chosen by the United Nations for 2021 is “Women in Leadership: Achieving an Equal Future in a Covid19 world.”
“International Women’s Day : Women in Leadership”
We all know we need more Women in Leadership. And many women want to be a leader in their chosen field. The idea of being the decision maker and having other people follow our lead is very appealing. But true leadership is more than a position or title, it’s a way of life. And in fact, you are already a leader. You are the leader of your own life!
Want to check if you are a good leader? Rate the following statements with yes or no:
I negotiate peacefully for what I want at home and work.
I am disciplined, focused and follow a life plan and a business plan.
I enjoy happy relationships with family, friends and colleagues.
I manage my personal and business finances well.
I have excellent time management skills in my personal and professional life.
“International Women’s Day : Achieving an Equal Future”
We all want an equal future and rightly so. But who is responsible for making this happen?
We are!
Women have been fighting for equality through International Women’s Day Celebrations since 1911. And still today, it’s up to each one of us to push for the changes we wish to see in our own workplace, neighbourhood and family. It is up to each of us to take responsibility, to step up and speak up for ourselves and the next generation of young women. We must individually and together find the courage to challenge bias, misinformation and presumptions.
This doesn’t mean that we become aggressive. In fact, quite the opposite. When we build inner confidence and belief in ourselves, and connect that with our values, we send a powerful, congruent message which causes others to sit up and take notice. And this doesn’t mean that we have to be more masculine. Our feminine qualities are what the world needs right now to create balance.
Over the years, I’ve noticed common traits that set successful women apart from others and thought you might find it helpful for me to list them here:
- They use their influence for the benefit of others
- They see failure as a form of feedback
- They know it’s ok to say no
- They openly ask for help and receive it with grace
- They are optimistic
- They are assertive, not passive or aggressive
- They promote collaboration over competition
- They encourage empathy not sympathy
- They are good listeners
- They are decisive and accept responsibility for all outcomes
- They know they have a choice and a voice, and they use both wisely
- They recognise that leadership is not about power or authority
- They have high EQ
So, here’s to an awesome International Women’s Day 2021. Make it your own, celebrate it, share it and reach out if you need help in becoming the leader of your own life 🙂 #choosetochallenge
