International Women’s Day in 2018 happening during a movement; in years to come will we look back at this time in history as the beginning of a monumental change. 2018 is the 100 year anniversary of (some) women getting the vote in the UK. We are surrounded by a push towards equality in the workplace (with businesses being forced to publish their salary information) and the #MeToo movement has been amplified, calling out the atrocious behaviour that exists far too close to home.
My social media is full of the stories of inspiring women; inventors, politicians, innovator, policy makers, activists and philanthropists. I share these stories regularly with my two; it is no surprise that Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls (V1 and V2) are part of the bedtime reading library for the Wilcox offspring! Having role models that we all can aspire to and learn from is important for girls and boys, women and men, everywhere.
When you think of Inspiring Women, whose achievements are celebrated, who comes to mind for you? Is it someone you have admired from afar, or someone a little closer to home? We are surrounded by inspiring women in our day to day lives; colleagues, friends, family members. But do we tell them enough how we feel about them? Do we shout enough about their achievements? Let them know how they help us live our lives with more drive, passion, focus and balance?
The people that truly inspire us aren’t strategic with it. They are in touch with their mission, their values and their purpose, and often quietly continue to live their lives in amazing ways, but rarely get the recognition they deserve.
I recently asked on my Facebook and LinkedIn profiles who inspired my connections and it was lovely to see the tags. From providing personal emotional and motivational support to moving past stereotypes and adversity.
So, because of this, my blog this week is a little different. It isn’t full of (what I hope are) useful tips and techniques. Instead, it is a call to arms. This week, hop onto either my Facebook or LinkedIn threads and tag the women that inspire you. If that isn’t your bag, then send them a message, an email or a card; next time you see them, tell them to your face how much they help you!
Tell them WHY you feel this way about them.
What have you learnt from them?
How are they making your life a tiny bit better?
Help them see themselves how you view them.
I can’t wait to read the responses!
But don’t limit this celebration just to International Women’s Day; keep it all year round!
Don’t forget this month I am giving away a coaching package worth £200 to one wonderful woman. Just tag them in this video, or message me through my Facebook Page before midday on 9th March to be part of the draw.
Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
