The Power of Women Supporting Women

In June, I attended a business retreat in Port Douglas, Australia, hosted by my business coach Tina Tower.  The experience left me energised, inspired, and reminded me of the incredible power of women supporting each other.  While I acknowledge that negative experiences among women exist, today's blog focuses on the benefits and positive outcomes of lifting each other up.

During the retreat, I challenged myself to connect with as many people as possible.  Engaging in deep conversations with remarkable women left me feeling inspired and in awe.  I realised that behind each women's success lies a complex web of personal struggles alongside professional aspirations.  The retreat also provided plenty of laughter and I mean deep belly laughs that brought me so much joy. 

Throughout the five days, I received advice, guidance and support from numerous women.  Their insights and inspiration filled my mind with sparks and ideas, leaving me motivated and eager to pursue new challenges.  Additionally, guest speakers and panel discussions provided practical actions and thought-provoking inspiration.

Having some "me" time away from my responsibilities allowed me to fully absorb the experience, leveraging the expertise and inspiration around me.  I made sure to leave with an action list to ensure I didn't lose valuable information, wisdom or insights. 

Reflecting on my experience, I realised that this is precisely what I aim to create through the EmpowerHer Collective which will launch in October this year.  This membership for females in corporate and business will provide a safe space for connection, collaboration and inspiration regardless of role, level, industry or background.  Here are the key benefits I want to foster within the collective:

1. Connecting and creating a supportive network:  By uniting women in business, I want to create a network that fosters growth, collaboration and mentorship.  By sharing experiences, expertise, challenges and successes, women will be empowered to navigate professional hurdles more effectively and to share successes and celebrate each other's achievements. 
2.  Sharing knowledge, experience and expertise:  Women bring diverse skills and expertise to the table and I want everyone to be able to tap into each other.  By collaborating and sharing insights, women can collectively elevate their capabilities, fostering a culture of learning, innovation, and continuous improvement.   Plus these networks often play the role of advertising vacancies across organisations and opportunities for cross collaboration.
3. Space to be heard:  Women need a safe environment to freely express their ideas, concerns, and aspirations without fear of judgement or bias.   This inclusive space allows for open, honest discussions, fostering a sense of belonging and validation and having an open mind for diverse thoughts and opinions.  In some instances, often just knowing and feeling "I'm not the only one" helps us to move out of "imposter syndrome and back into self-belief and action".
4. Permission to have dedicated "me time":  Women really struggle to put themselves first and to put "me time" at the top of their list.  The opportunity to participate in workshops or events tailored specifically to women's development, interests and well-being, encourage prioritising the importance of an hour or two a month dedicated "me time". 
5. Building confidence and resilience:  Through networking, peer support, shared experiences and stories and exposure to relatable role models these forums encourage and inspire women to set ambitious goals and believe in their abilities.  

Attending the retreat in Port Douglas allowed me to recharge and refocus plus walk away with invaluable knowledge, insights and inspiration for both my professional growth and overall well-being.