Each time a woman stands up for herself, she stands up for all women.
Maya angelou
Despite modernization, some sectors in the country fall short of supporting women. Archaic traditionalists continue to perceive women as weak and inferior members of society. How do we live today with this reality? We advocate for women supporting women. Only a sister can understand the moral, spiritual, professional, and social needs of another sister.
While we don’t have the protest in the streets to do this, it is good to note that there are laws and republic acts that uphold women’s rights. Unfortunately, not all women are aware of their rights and some may be disinterested altogether. Regardless, I hope we can be the woman who will support another woman even in their own way. And here are some simple ways we can do that.
Start with Yourself
Before we start supporting other women, it’s good to ask ourselves the following questions:
*Do I have biases towards women who are different from me?
*Am I envious of those who are more successful than me?
*Do I engage in endless one-upmanship to prove I am better?
*Do I bad-mouth or gossip about other women?
It is best to settle these personal issues before we advocate for women supporting women. We can sense if someone is being truthful we are being or not in our show of support.
Take Time to Listen
When we take time to listen, we can understand each other better. When a sister shares her story, let us be slow in giving unsolicited advice and avoid jumping to conclusions before hearing what she has to say. We listen to empathize not to criticize. There will be a proper place and time for correction and counsel. Every story is unique to the individual and we learn to shut our mouths and pay attention. When we do, they feel valued and will help build their confidence. When women feel supported by other women, it creates a bond that helps empower the sisterhood.
Be a Mentor
We all need mentors both in our professional and personal life. Mentors are people with experience and maturity. Young entrepreneurs are looking to established ones to guide them in their entrepreneurial journey. First-time moms seek the advice of mothers with older children. A rookie will succeed at work if she has someone to teach and guide her. Passing on your values, skills, and experience to the younger women is one of the best ways to support women.
Build a Network of Women
Networking is connecting with people and building relationships. Network Marketing is a type of business, which is built on networking skills too. Let us not confuse the two. Growing our network is key to building a strong support system for women.
No woman is an island. It is important to forge new relationships to share knowledge, resources, and connections. On a deeper level, a network of women is a source of emotional and mental support. There are a few women who are wary of creating connections with others. Maybe they had a bad experience or it is just their personality type. Here’s a relevant article for women who struggle with networking or making connections.
If you are not part of a community of women, Facebook offers a lot, from a community of mothers to a group of entrepreneurs. You’ll find that will suit your need.
Celebrate Other Women’s Success
Amal Clooney said, “The worst thing that we can do as women is not stand up for each other, and this is something we can practice every day, no matter where we are and what we do — women sticking up for other women, choosing to protect and celebrate each other instead of competing or criticizing one another.”
Women supporting women is not a one-time thing. It is a continuous process of providing professional, personal, mental, and spiritual help to women. It’s not a selfish act of thinking what we can gain. But a humbling experience knowing you have added value to one woman’s life in your own little way.
In what area in your life do you need the most support? How can you pass on the support to others?
