By Stella Vasileiadou,
The 8th of March is a day dedicated to women’s achievements around the world, and aims to promote awareness towards women’s rights, gender equality as well as against sexual/gender-based violence. But, is this one day, a week or even a month enough? I guess probably not.
I have seen many times women mistreating other women, through gossiping or by talking in a bad manner about them to other people. I totally hate hearing women saying things like: “Oh my god, why is she looking like that, why is she wearing that skirt?” or “She looks fat, ugly etc.”. It is so sad. We should not envy other women. It is not a competition, but a common struggle.
But sadder still, is that, according to the Ladders and research published in the journal Development and Learning in Organisations, 70 percent of female executives feel as though they have been bullied by other women in their workplaces and that these bullying incidents constituted a hindrance for their personal growth. That is exactly why supporting women is important.
Here are a few reasons why women should support other women:
- We face exactly the same struggles
Inequality in the workplace? Pregnancy? Childbirth? No one knows exactly how all these do feel like, until they have been in your shoes. A shoulder to cry on, is one of the most important things you could ever have. This is why you should treat other women the way you would want to be treated. So be compassionate and try to not judge or spread rumors.
- Believe it or not, it is truly rewarding!
“It’s better to give than to receive.”
Get inspired by other women. Do not envy them. Besides, helping someone does not cost a thing. You could compliment them on their hard work for example. When a woman realizes her self-worth miracles can happen. For instance, if you know of women looking for work or a better position, get their information so you can refer them if/when an opportunity arises. What goes around, comes around. Also, positive social interactions, such as “lifting each other up”, can help us feel a little happier and less stressed.
- Together, we can be unstoppable!
The greatest feats of activist efforts throughout history, across the globe, have resulted from community action and connection. It is high time for all of us that we got connected, reached out, and lifted each other. up Perhaps you can start with a kind word, a helping hand, or just by acknowledging the importance of all the women you meet.
All in all, we really need to reverse the stereotype, that women do not support other women. There is scientific research that shows women in particular who benefit from collaboration over competition. Study after study shows women who support women are more successful in business and that it makes a true difference in their lives, too.
References
- “Power Of The Pack: Women Who Support Women Are More Successful”, FORBES, Available here.
- “Women accomplish amazing things when we support each other”, LEANIN, Available here.
- “Why Women Need to Start Supporting Other Women at Work”, TopResume, Available here.
