International Women’s Day – Choose to Challenge

“Always be a first-rate version of yourself instead of a second-rate version of somebody else” - Judy Garland. 

International women’s day is a global day, celebrating the achievements of women, raising awareness against bias and taking action to promote equality, whilst uncovering inequality. Celebrated annually on the 8th of March, International Women’s day has been going for well over a century with the first gathering taking place in 1911. 

This year's theme #ChooseToChallenge gets us all to take a step back and critically reflect on our thoughts and actions and consider how we can promote gender inequality whilst celebrating the achievements of women all around the world; whether it's your mother, sister, auntie, grandmother, wife, girlfriend, best friend, colleague (and last, but not least yourself) 

How Will You Work Towards Forging Positive Change? 

"The story of women's struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist, nor to any one organization, but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights." Gloria Steinem 

We all have the power to make change and the point of power is always in the present moment. When we choose to challenge, we choose to work towards making the world increasingly aware of not only gender bias and inequalities past and present but also of the incredible achievements of women. When we choose to challenge and work together, we set into motion a catalyst for change.  

Where & How We Can Choose To Challenge for Change: 

• Empowerment – Encourage women to peruse goals without barriers or bias. Share your own story with others and empower others around you. By engaging in deep and inspiring conversations with those around us we can help to empower each other and cause a ripple effect to drive change.  

• Creativity – Raise awareness, promote visibility and celebrate the creative work of women. Celebrate the work of female creatives past and present and give praise to their impact and influence on both male and female creatives, now and for the future. 

• Technology – Celebrate women driving technological innovation and digital advancements. Create a forum, big or small to discuss the latest innovations and how we can embrace or develop technologies to make the world a better place. 

• Health – Give women the power and knowledge they need to make informed decisions and choices on their own health. Fight the gender inequality of access to health information. Raise awareness of health issues, regardless of age, which may affect us or someone we love. 

• Sport – Celebrate the determination and achievements of women athletes and work towards achieving equal pay, sponsorship and visibility. Remove barriers to involvement in sports, traditionally gender exclusive. 

• Work – Challenge traditional views of women in the workplace and work towards inclusive work cultures where women can progress their careers and they achievements are equally celebrated.  

Every step and action we take to drive equality works towards making an impactful change, both on a local and global level. We make the biggest change when we work together and help and support each other. It doesn’t always have to be as grand and bold as delivering a speech in front of 10,000 eager listeners. Simply speaking with someone and sharing your journey and experience can enlighten other women and challenge them to critically challenge their day-to-day thoughts and actions, motivating them to pave the way for change and gender equality.  

Choose to Challenge – Are You in? 

International Women’s Day encourages us to take stock of all our achievements as women and the challenges we face on a daily basis. Male or female, this significant day makes us re-consider we should be celebrating the amazing women in our lives every day. Together, we can raise awareness, promote empowerment and take action to work towards a gender equal world. #ChooseToChallenge #IWD2021 

If you’re at a crossroads in life and looking to make a change, but in need of guidance or clarity, our trusted readers are waiting to connect with you and give you confidential and compassionate advice and guidance to help you on your spiritual journey. Choose from one of our services and choose a gifted reader today.