Suzanne Marlatt Stewart
Some of us may feel that our role of being an older woman who people look to for advice is over. This is so far from the truth. A culmination of many experiences and a long history of past accomplishments make senior women wise and strong.
Many of us are the matriarch of our families. We have daughters, granddaughters, and some of us have great-granddaughters. These females need our wisdom more than ever. Politics and government can be great places for women to step into visibility. If societal breakdowns occur, women can help save civilization. In fact, the Dalai Lama said something to the effect that the Western woman will save the world. Now, that is an enormous undertaking. Cooperation, team playing, wisdom, common sense, and leadership can be the hallmark of women’s rise.
Recently, another trailblazer, Madeleine Albright, died. She was the first female Secretary of State in America. Her suggestions for women bear repeating. She said, “Women need to act in a more confident manner.” and “Women need to ask questions when they occur and don’t wait to ask.”
Following are some suggestions that you can instill in the younger female generations:
* Be a risk taker and develop confidence. You cannot be powerful unless you develop confidence.
* Become visible, step out, and be seen and heard.
* Regularly upgrade your education and skills.
* Surround yourself with people who demand more from you, not just those who agree or are easy and comfortable.
* Learn to be more assertive.
* Learn to network with men and different diverse groups.
* Stop putting pressure on yourself to be perfect in everything.
* Stop apologizing.
* Learn to ask for more income and charge enough for your services.
* Learn to say “no” to job offers that are not in line with your beliefs and expectations.
Evolving jobs need empowering women and a levelling of the playing field. The new service economy doesn’t rely on physical strength, but rather skills that come easily to women, such as determination, attention to detail, and measured thinking. The female brain is naturally wired for long-term strategic vision and community building. [World Economic Forum]
Michelle Obama, mother of two daughters, and well-respected as a force of her own, provides these quotes of wisdom:
“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”
“I have learned that as long as I hold fast to my beliefs and values—and follow my own moral compass—then the only expectations I need to live up to are my own.”
Women, you can help save civilization and don’t need to shy away from the task. You can help improve society and replace those who want to harm it for their own power. A reminder for all of us to take to heart is this powerful quote from Audrey Hepburn: “Nothing is impossible; the word itself says ‘I’m possible’!”
Rev. Suzanne is an independent writer and speaker who lives in SaddleBrooke. Her focus is “inclusive.” She was ordained non-denominational in 1988, representing all faiths. Contact her at [email protected].