YES, it’s about the very essence of being a woman. And it does not have to be Women’s Month. Every day, a woman can celebrate her femininity in the many creative ways she expresses herself to the world. So, ladies, this is for all of us. Let’s share the love.
Giving your all
Kindness sets the tone. Start with a little more self-love. It can show in simple ways: taking a relaxing bath, saying yes to things that lift you up and no to the things that drain you, enjoying a pampering massage, drinking your favorite coffee or tea, finding time to be alone, taking a short vacation or retreat, or devoting more time to prayer or community work.
At the same time, exercise your self-confidence. Find your voice, speak up, own your strengths, work on your weaknesses and try something new. At the end of the day, remember to reward yourself. Give yourself a prize.
One of the greatest assets of a woman is her power to empathize. Do you see this in yourself? You may want to hone your ability to listen better and be present for others in times of distress. A woman also has the ability to focus on positivity. There is an unseen rudder within that guides her through the rough seas of life with grace. While some may see only the dark night ahead, a woman envisions the morning light. By focusing on the hopeful and the good, she learns to appreciate wins — big or small.
The term may be overused, but it remains a significant part of who you are: an empowered woman. This stage often arrives after navigating life’s ups and downs. In the process, you gain self-control and wisdom. You no longer feel the need to prove anything to anyone because you have arrived. From there comes the calling to inspire, mentor and guide those who seek your advice. Social media, with its reach and influence, can even become a tool to help young women discover their own purpose.
Empowerment, however, cannot be achieved without courage. A woman can easily tap the power of her courageous heart, along with her capacity for devotion and self-sacrifice. And this is where her greatest strength lies — in her loving heart.
Women for all women
Guided by the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women and UN Women, gender equality is a fundamental human right that emphasizes non-discrimination. The reference to women, in the spirit of inclusivity, covers women of all ages, backgrounds and identities. This includes LGBTQ+, trans women, non-binary and gender non-conforming individuals who identify as women, those with disabilities, women of color and from diverse cultures, as well as women with different sexual orientations and relationships.
In this context, you can celebrate the joys of being a woman alongside other women. Join women’s empowerment events and support women-led businesses.
Uplift the lives of women in whatever way you can. Create a mental awareness project to benefit young, marginalized girls. You could start a fundraising campaign for street children’s shelters or serve as a resource person in schools to share your knowledge and expertise.
Support organizations that protect women’s rights and offer legal assistance to victims of crime. Spread awareness about violence against women. Encourage women to find their voice and speak up against inequality and injustice. And, of course, celebrate the women in your family and among your friends.
So if you are a woman, shout it out with pride.
Affirmation: “I am a woman. And I am enough.”
Love and light.