Empowering The Women Around Us
/Who runs the world? GIRLS.
That’s why, as women, we need to do a better job of empowering, supporting, and uplifting each other. This comes in the form of supporting your female co-workers, not judging fellow moms, and sometimes just reaching out and helping another woman in need. Especially in the media, there is always chatter about how women are “enemies” or how powerful women can’t get along. BUT, I know in my community of bada** women that rumour is put to shame, because each day I know and love so many strong and inclusive women.
You don’t have to be an activist, celebrity, or politician to empower the women around you. Here are a few quick ways you can support the women in your life:
Support, Support, Support
“The way to achieve your own success is to be willing to help somebody else get it first. It takes nothing away from you”
One of Oprah’s right hand women, Iyanla Vanzant, is the master of this rule. When Oprah was first creating her talkshow, Iyanla was right there beside her to help and support her in any way she needed. Even though Iyanla wanted the same success and platform as Oprah eventually, Iyanla still encouraged and advised her. This can be a super hard lesson to master, especially when your goals line up with someone else’s. But, the key to this rule is recognizing that supporting someone else in their success takes nothing away from you. Supporting a friend so they can start their own business or help out with their kids doesn’t mean they are a better businesswoman or mother. Truly successful women want other women to be empowered as well — know that you can support other women and it takes absolutely nothing away from you.
Don’t Judge
“What Susie says of Sally says more of Susie than of Sally”
The beauty of the human race is that each of us are unique, and therefore, each of us has our own story, experiences, and outlook on the world. Being a girl’s girl means withholding judgment of our friends and colleagues because we most likely don’t have the full picture. Think about when you have been in a time of crisis. Have you wanted a criticism or opinion, or have you just wanted support? We need love and support a lot more than we need advice. Be a supportive woman by refusing to judge those around you.
Speak Up
“A compliment is verbal sunshine”
I’m not sure if there is anything in the world better than a genuine compliment, especially when it’s from another woman. There is just something that feels so good about an expression of admiration. So if you admire something about another woman, tell her! It can make someone’s day. It’s the little ways that you can support and encourage your tribe that make all the difference.
Be Honest
“Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women who have her back”
The best relationships are the ones built on honesty and trust. How do you expect to have a genuine friendship with people when they don’t know the real you!? As women, we have so many common struggles that it’s important we can all contribute and share in the ups and downs of life. Being honest about who you are and what you stand for will attract like-minded, supportive women who will have your back. Vulnerability is also important in cultivating lasting friendships. By being honest about your life and struggles, you are opening the doors for others to open up and feel supported also.
Join Sparkle Unleashed or more tips, guidance and support at SparkleUnleashedCommunity.com. Or connect with Jennifer Stroman on Facebook!
