CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

As today is International Women’s Day I thought it worthy of a blog. 

International Women’s Day celebrates the achievements of women across history and this day appreciates all the work that they have completed in social, economic, political and cultural sectors.

It was first celebrated way back in the early 1900s with women campaigning for gender equality. There have been many women who have impacted the world from the Suffragettes to individuals like Marie Curie founding the science of radioactivity and Rosalind Franklin who discovered the structure of DNA, and many many more.

There are still less women in senior management positions than men and also still a gender pay gap but celebrating International Women’s Day highlights the continuing need to raise issues such as gender bias and discrimination.

I believe we should celebrate everyone who makes a difference and leads to a more welcoming world for everyone. However, for today my thoughts go out to all my inspirational ladies in the ABW as well as colleagues and friends.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself:

• Is your workplace as inclusive as it could or should be? Remember no matter the organisation, it should strive to make the workplace as inclusive as it can be for all employees
• How do you champion diversity and inclusion? You might consider having an inspirational speaker to talk about this topic.
• Are women contributing to the digital and technology advancements in your workforce? There are many women who have shaped technology and I am delighted to say that in Ayrshire Business Women we have the amazing Kirste Johnston who, as Sector Head Scottish Government at Vodafone Business. supports and develops Digital Transformation Strategy Programmes for Vodafone in the Public Sector.
• How aware are you of equality in sport?
• Who do you know that is an inspirational female athlete?
• Who do you know that is appreciated for her creative work, such as, art, music, dance and any creative field?
• What about health education? Are women able to make informed and sensible decisions regarding their physical and mental health?
• How do you empower and encourage yourself and others to follow their dreams and achieve their goals?

Share stories of your achievements. When you do this you empower and encourage others.

Your achievements can be as simple as solving a problem, or getting a promotion. One of my attributes in my book 7 Attributes for Success’ is titled ‘Encouragement’ and this talks about encouraging yourself, don’t wait for someone else to encourage you.

What can be difficult for many of us, due to past conditioning, is shouting about our achievements but don’t wait for someone else to do this – start now – shout your accomplishments from the rooftops.

I can highly recommend joining a group of inspirational women, such as Ayrshire Business Women. I’m so glad I found them and joined them. I have found them encouraging, motivating and a group where you can share in a trusting and confidential environment.

Remember to SMILE AND LAUGH, they cost you nothing.

Have a great day.

Virtual hugs to all

Patricia x