International Women's Day is an annual celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is a time to reflect on the progress we have made and the work that still needs to be done to achieve gender equality. As we mark this important day, it is worth considering what it means to be a woman in today's world.
Being a woman for me, is a superpower. As a woman I feel strong, I feel empowered and I feel like I definitely have lucky girl syndrome. I believe I can achieve, and I take steps to ensure I do achieve. This strength and determination has always been with me, and I have been fortunate to have strong female role models in my life. However I have a new sense of confidence, of being, a resilience that is only getting stronger since turning 30. Often,as a woman you are regarded as “expiring”. People often assume that there is a checklist that you should have completed by the time you hit 30, and maybe we are guilty of applying that pressure to ourselves!? Something I learned recently, is that your life path is fluid. It is not set in stone, it will change direction, it will throw curve balls at you it will challenge you. And the only thing consistent in life and business, is change. Don’t get hung up on “not being where you should be” and focus your time and energy on where you want to be, your goals and moving forward despite the pace.
So lets talk about what it means being a woman to me, hopefully you can relate weather you are a woman or not you will know or have witnessed women who have these qualities and characteristics.
Being a woman means having the strength and resilience to overcome the unique challenges that come with navigating a world that is still largely dominated by men. It means fighting for equal pay, reproductive rights, and the right to live free from violence and harassment. It means pushing back against gender stereotypes and cultural norms that limit our potential and restrict our choices.
Being a woman means supporting and uplifting other women, knowing that our collective power is greater than the sum of our individual parts. It means recognising the intersectionality of our identities and advocating for the rights of marginalised women who face additional barriers and discrimination.
Being a woman means embracing our own unique strengths and talents, while also recognising and valuing the contributions of others. It means rejecting the notion that there is only one way to be a woman and celebrating the diversity that makes our community so vibrant and resilient.
Above all, being a woman means never giving up on the fight for gender equality. It means acknowledging that the journey is long and difficult, but also knowing that we have come too far to turn back now. It means continuing to push for progress, even in the face of setbacks and obstacles.
As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us take a moment to reflect on what it means to be a woman and to recommit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Let us stand together, support one another, and work towards a world where every woman can thrive and achieve her full potential.