Women Are Important

March 8th is International Women’s Day. This post is especially for you, women!

The world would be different without women. Think of Florence Nightingale, Mother Theresa and Rosa Parks. These women changed the world.

In 1963, a woman was passed over for a promotion in favour of a man whom she had trained. Frustrated, she retired and founded Mary Kay Cosmetics, Inc. for the purpose of enriching women’s lives. Today, Mary Kay Cosmetics has more than 800,000 representatives from 38 countries, with Singapore being the latest addition, with its first anniversary this week. Mary Kay Ash Charity Foundation seeks to fight against family violence and cancers affecting women.

According to Mary Kay, everyone has an invisible sign hanging from their neck saying, “Make me feel important.”

To the women reading this blog, know that you are important.

Along my life’s journey, I have worked with hundreds of women – ranging from young girls, to independent career women, to single mothers, to victims of family violence. A lot of these women are, to say the least, very intelligent, capable and beautiful. However, a common factor I see in them is their lack of confidence.

Women, don’t believe it when people say that you are slow and stupid. Do not believe the lie when they say you are not capable of showing leadership.

Do not be afraid when your husband shouts at you because he is equally or more afraid, or else he would not shout at you to exert his strength.

You are important – inside and out. The best thing you could do to yourself is to love yourself as who you are. You do not need validation from people around you. Once you love yourself, your confidence will show in a form of a quiet assurance. And people will respect you more.

Look at yourself in the mirror today and say, “I love you for who you are! You are important!”

And as you carry the quiet dignity within you, do not allow people to push you around. Like Mary Kay, refuse to be a victim, seek to be proactive. Make a difference.

But for now, know that you are important. And celebrate.

Because today is your day, do something to show that you are important – to yourself.

And cherish the time you have – to yourself!