Women around the world are in dire situations that leave them vulnerable to a variety of threats. From rape to domestic violence, these problems not only affect women but their families and communities as well.
Empowering women is not just a matter of social justice, but also a key factor in economic development. To accomplish this goal, businesses need to adopt business practices that empower women.
Self-awareness
Self-awareness is an introspective process that enables us to better understand our character, emotions, and desires. It requires a willingness to be honest with ourselves and an open-mindedness to grow. This could include taking a strengths- and weakness assessment, reflecting on your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs, and asking for feedback from trusted friends and mentors.
Women often find themselves in the middle of an intricate ballet of roles and responsibilities. Whether juggling familial obligations, career goals, or societal expectations, it’s a challenge to maintain balance. Using self-awareness as your compass helps you navigate life’s challenges with grace and wisdom. It also enables you to be more effective in your work and relationships. The more you learn about yourself, the more you can help others.
Self-love
Self-love is a feeling, but it’s also the actions you take to respect and prioritize yourself, says therapist Jalissa Shelby. It includes things like talking to yourself kindly and listening to what your body and mind need, such as getting enough sleep and exercising.
It’s also about not criticizing yourself after you disappoint someone or make a mistake (like forgetting cheese at the grocery store). Instead, try to practice forgiveness and lean in when criticism shows up to support you.
Identifying your values and taking action to align with those can also foster self-love, such as volunteering or supporting local businesses. Lastly, don’t forget to celebrate your wins, no matter how small! Your progress is proof that you’re on the right track. The journey to woman empowerment requires a lot of hard work, but it’s worth it in the end.
Learning
Women who have access to education and upskilling are better able to support themselves and their families. They are also more likely to contribute to the social good, thereby helping society. This is why education is considered an essential component of women’s empowerment.
However, there are still many women who are unable to pursue their education for various reasons. These include limited access to devices and connectivity, family and care responsibilities, and low digital literacy. eLearning initiatives can address these challenges by incorporating gender perspectives and implementing a blended learning approach.
Employers can also help by promoting inclusivity and offering mentoring programs. They can also offer flexible work options and parental leave, and provide training on unconscious bias. These are simple ways to help empower women and make them feel valued at work.
Vulnerability
Vulnerability is a powerful feminine strength that can be used for connection, growth and happiness. It can help you ask for what you need, share your feelings and reframe maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. However, it’s important to remember that vulnerability is a process and must be used wisely. It’s also important to know your audience and maintain healthy boundaries.
Leaders who embrace vulnerability create a culture of authenticity that fosters teamwork and collaboration. They also challenge the misconceived notion that emotional openness is a weakness.
Women empowerment (WE) initiatives are increasingly recognizing the need to be more holistic and contextualized. This requires that any initiative be transparent and inclusive of all opinions. It is also essential that all stakeholders are held accountable for their work.
Giving
A woman who is empowered loves to give her time, talent and treasure to those around her. She knows that when she gives, she gets even more in return.
Many women are philanthropists. They donate funds to causes they believe in and support other women’s efforts. They are also helping to shape a new generation of women who want to make the world a better place for everyone.
The future of wealth management and philanthropy belongs to those who are willing to change with the times. Focusing on women and leveraging their potential for significant giving will unlock more philanthropic capital. Women like Melinda Gates, MacKenzie Scott, and Laurene Powell Jobs are leading this trend by making big commitments from a trust-based and gender-focused perspective.