It is very timely that my first article for this column is about women empowerment as we celebrate the ‘National Women’s Month’. We try to communicate love and appreciation towards women as they selflessly contribute to our lives and society.
A year ago, I was invited to give an inspirational talk in Baguio City during the ‘Kababaihan Festival’ which joins all women– as a mother, wife, homemaker, sister, and daughter. The theme ‘We Make Change Work for Women’ was very timely and here are some points delivered that inspired others.
Self-leadership and Self-empowerment. A wife does not have to live under the shadow of their husbands. She is not just Mrs—, the wife of… In reality, she can actually create her own branding; such as the Mrs who bakes the best cakes in town; the lady who gives genuine service in church; the woman who motivates her children to become athletes, etc. While wife juggles other responsibilities at home, she still has the power to transform others. This is self-leadership. How else can you empower others if you have not empowered yourself?
Starting from Family. We are all part of a family– as mothers; children, spouses, in-laws, etc. How do we empower our loved ones? Unfortunately, most children are disillusioned by social media; who think they are not enough. Making them believe that, ‘beauty is not just in your face or body, it is in the heart’. People are considered beautiful because they are good inside and this is more appreciated. Bonus na lang ‘yung pretty face.
Walk your talk. It would be ideal if we practice what we preach, such as being kind, honest, considerate of other people’s feelings, thoughtful, caring, generous, among other good qualities. Children must see these qualities in us. Our children mirror us; they often do and imitate what they see. Leading by example is the best thing to do.
Attitude of gratitude. Simply put, show them to be thankful even for the littlest blessings.
Lastly, encourage them in their pursuits and continue guiding them. Allow them to make mistakes while they are young. While it is painful to see them frustrated, it is from these failures that they learn and grow. See them get up, dust themselves up and let them start anew. These experiences are the best teachers, we just have to be there to guide them.
Comments are closed.