This rise of authenticity, in which we speak and live our truths while empowering others to do the same, leads us into “The Year of the Woman.” Power comes from having the ability to affect change. In the midst of the Women’s March - the largest single-day protest in US history - and the #MeToo movement, we are experiencing the ways in which women are joining forces and stepping into power. While a woman has not yet ascended to the position of US President, more women are running for office today than ever before.
As a result of the #MeToo movement, companies and communities are being forced to address sexual harassment, institute zero-tolerance standards. Awareness about issues like the gender pay gap and the glass ceiling are on the rise. There is a clear connection between these movements that represents the rising of women.
Together, women are creating a very powerful force… a force that has empowered many more women to step into their authentic truth, and that will continue to strengthen many more. It is a force that - if consciously used - will ensure women do not have to suffer from the same abuse and oppression that generations of women have endured.
During this moment, it’s imperative to look not just at what we are doing, but also how we are doing it. There is a tremendous amount of responsibility that comes with power, as history has shown us time and time again. As women, it is important to reflect on what effective use of this power really is.
The change we create needs to arise with respect, compassion, honesty, and integrity - otherwise we will simply be repeating the patterns of many of our predecessors. Our definition of success must include defining and living according to our values. Success without integrity is shallow. Success without balance is short-lived. It is for this reason that I partnered with Yoga International to create the Women’s Empowerment Initiative, a year long, online program designed to give women the personal, emotional, professional, and spiritual tools and wisdom to thrive in all aspects of life. Workshops offered by 14 female leaders provide insight into 12 monthly topics, including relationships, career, humanitarianism, spirituality, and more. An interactive guidebook helps to apply what is learned to each person’s own individual life.
The option to form meetup groups to move through the program in community creates opportunity for deep connection. The program- as a whole- gives women tools so that they can not just step into positions of power, but do so as balanced, conscious, empowered changemakers. Here is a link to learn more: www.yogainternational.com/empowerment
Meaningful change requires both individual commitment and community involvement. In order to make a permanent change, we need to create ways to thrive as complete human beings. This rise of ‘whole’ women, who are able to speak and live their authentic truth empowers us all to be open and honest about our strengths and our challenges, as individuals, communities, and society as a whole.
We don’t have to be passive any more, but we also don’t have to be perfect. Instead, let’s aim to be who we truly are, and in turn, acknowledge the same in all of humanity - both women AND men.
Please join us as we step into this important new year, continuing to expand this movement in life-changing ways.