The short answers are:
For girls, it's about self-esteem and convincing them that, Yes they can.
For boys, it's about learning to respect women and girls.
These are two incredibly important and central issues facing young people today, and the future of our society, frankly.
Women's history can play a role depending on how it's presented. As dull and boring? No way. As inspiring, fascinating, fun, and filled with courageous role models, ideas, and solutions? Absolutely!
But herein lies the problem. Women's history is not being taught to students under college age, and even then it's elective. If young people do hear dribs and drabs about Abigail Adams, why should they care? She's been dead for 200 years.
I've been interviewing young women, their teachers and parents, for the book I'm working on and what I've been hearing breaks my heart.
No knowledge of women's history and no interest, combined with very serious self-esteem issues for girls around having babies too young, getting involved with the wrong boys, not seeing a future for themselves, not knowing or believing in their talents.
Yes, yes, I know there are exceptions, thank God, and there are some wonderful parents and teachers out there, but I keep hearing this across the economic spectrum.
And here's where you, your business, or organization can play a leadership role. It will come back to you.
• Find the talented women's history folks in your community and sponsor a talk where you know young people will show up - a Saturday afternoon talk at your public library, girl scouts or boy scouts (yes, just don't tell them what it is), an after school program, a special walking tour, a kids-only tour through a woman's home - find out what would be fun and interesting in your community, and an engaging person to do it.
• Sponsor a school project. In Boston, for the Boston Women's Heritage Trail, 5th graders created mini walking trails in their school's neighborhood. They researched deceased women, and interviewed "live" ones. Boys and girls really "got it." Students could also research and create displays, write a play, shoot a video, conduct oral histories - there's no shortage of ideas out there.
• If an organization in your community is already trying to "do something" with women's history that you know will have an impact, offer your support. Money is always welcome, but so is your endorsement and your proud affiliation as you let your customers, clients, and members know what you are doing and why.
In fact, all of these ideas mean terrific press opportunities for you and special events as projects get underway and are completed. Publicity and events around this work lead to good will, customers, and long memories.
Please also make a point of meeting the students involved. Tell them you are proud of them. Take an interest. Find a way to display what they did at your place of business or organization.
For some of these young people, especially girls, they don't hear "Well done!" enough in their lives. You would be surprised how little encouragement it takes from just one adult to make a difference in their lives.
A quick story...
I recently gave a talk about women during the Civil War for the Framingham (Massachusetts) Public Library. Afterward, a very shy girl, about 12, and her mother, approached me. Her mother asked if I would please give my talk at her daughter's school because "these girls never hear this information and they would be so inspired." Her daughter, who kind of hid behind her mother, said nothing, but she just kept nodding and I could see she had really gotten something out of what I had said. I have no idea what, but something. I wish I could have spoken with her privately.
Good for the Framingham Public Library for hosting this Saturday morning talk because where else would this young girl have heard it? Will she think about what I said? Probably. Will her mother find ways for her to go further? No doubt.
So...you never know, and wouldn't you feel proud if you knew that you, your organization or business, had made a profound difference in the self-esteem of a young girl as she stood on the threshold of deciding whether or not she was worth anything.
I think so!
Bonnie Hurd Smith, the President and CEO of History Smiths, believes in using "history" for passion, purpose, and profit -- for businesses, organizations, and individuals. The results? Attention, customers, loyalty, a high status reputation, and the knowledge that you are connected to something that matters.
Minggu, 24 September 2017
Rabu, 13 September 2017
Are You a Leader? Top 5 Characteristics of Women in Leadership
"If women would realize what an influence they have, they would be filled with pride. If men recognized how influential women are, they would be scared to death."Katherine J. Kehler
What do successful women business leaders have in common? Do their leadership qualities differ? An understanding of the primary characteristics of women help in defining their character and persona as leaders. The likeness in women such as emotions, intellect and logical thinking, nurturing capability and the idea of shared leadership are among the many qualities that define women in leadership roles today.
According to Laura Henderson and Sharon Hadary, authors of "How Women Lead: 8 Essential Strategies Successful Women Know", qualities women commonly share can be the pathway to leadership. Every woman should believe in herself and her instincts, dream big dreams, and have the knowledge and tools to make her dreams a reality. In addition, women leaders with multi-million dollar businesses combine their unique feminine leadership with sound business acumen to achieve their highest aspirations.
Successful women business leaders know how to make the puzzle pieces of life fit together. So, what traits are common among them? There are five characteristics for creating lasting success:
Defines Success on Their Own Terms
Women in leadership are not bound by the rules of the game. They are more likely to take risks and break the rules in business and life. They understand that true success begins with knowing who you are; what your strengths are and what you really want out of life!
"Success is not about being impressive; it's about being inspired. It's about leading a rich life, no matter how much money you have". First Lady Michelle Obama
Invest in Their Personal & Professional Growth
Women in leadership are always in an evolving state. They understand that personal and professional growth is a crucial part of life and it's what lead to improvement, achievement and of course... success! They continuously strive for perfection; balancing their mind, body and spirit; while juggling their household chores and family obligations; and professional commitments. In addition, they seek partnerships and collaboration with like-minded and professionally-viable people.
Recognize Their Strength
The concept of realizing one's potential is important for any individual to excel in their respective field of interest. A successful woman focuses on this aspect in-and-out. There have been studies that reflect that a female entrepreneur who succeeds in her business ventures is the one who understands her strengths and works on them to create a niche market for her business. The inward journey and self-realization is important to establish and own a business that reaps rich dividends for you.
Face Difficult Challenges Head On
Challenges come in all shapes and sizes. Being faced with challenges in business or life is inevitable! The ability to deal with them is what defines a leader. A leader will react to difficult challenges with focus, resolve, and execution. Women in leadership embrace challenges knowing that greater fulfillment, success and growth is obtained when you can adapt to any situation.
Make a Positive Difference... Pay It Forward!
"If you have much, give of your wealth; if you have little, give of your heart." Arab Proverb
Paying it Forward Pays Back is based on a single principle, if you do a good deed for someone, do it without personal gain. Women in leadership believe in the concept of 'Pay it Forward'. They have a tremendous desire to give back to others. It is an essential element of being an outstanding leader.
Natalie MacNeil, Media Producer & Consultant and award winning blogger practices what she preaches. She spends considerable amount of time volunteering with the not-for-profit that she co-founded as well as many other organizations. MacNeil says, "Success is being able to make a living doing what I love and inspiring others to do the same. I measure success in how many people I can reach and inspire".
In conclusion, with leadership comes responsibility. It is important to find a striking balance as well as continually improve upon your leadership skills. What do you think of these five characteristics? What does it take to be a great leader?
What do successful women business leaders have in common? Do their leadership qualities differ? An understanding of the primary characteristics of women help in defining their character and persona as leaders. The likeness in women such as emotions, intellect and logical thinking, nurturing capability and the idea of shared leadership are among the many qualities that define women in leadership roles today.
According to Laura Henderson and Sharon Hadary, authors of "How Women Lead: 8 Essential Strategies Successful Women Know", qualities women commonly share can be the pathway to leadership. Every woman should believe in herself and her instincts, dream big dreams, and have the knowledge and tools to make her dreams a reality. In addition, women leaders with multi-million dollar businesses combine their unique feminine leadership with sound business acumen to achieve their highest aspirations.
Successful women business leaders know how to make the puzzle pieces of life fit together. So, what traits are common among them? There are five characteristics for creating lasting success:
Defines Success on Their Own Terms
Women in leadership are not bound by the rules of the game. They are more likely to take risks and break the rules in business and life. They understand that true success begins with knowing who you are; what your strengths are and what you really want out of life!
"Success is not about being impressive; it's about being inspired. It's about leading a rich life, no matter how much money you have". First Lady Michelle Obama
Invest in Their Personal & Professional Growth
Women in leadership are always in an evolving state. They understand that personal and professional growth is a crucial part of life and it's what lead to improvement, achievement and of course... success! They continuously strive for perfection; balancing their mind, body and spirit; while juggling their household chores and family obligations; and professional commitments. In addition, they seek partnerships and collaboration with like-minded and professionally-viable people.
Recognize Their Strength
The concept of realizing one's potential is important for any individual to excel in their respective field of interest. A successful woman focuses on this aspect in-and-out. There have been studies that reflect that a female entrepreneur who succeeds in her business ventures is the one who understands her strengths and works on them to create a niche market for her business. The inward journey and self-realization is important to establish and own a business that reaps rich dividends for you.
Face Difficult Challenges Head On
Challenges come in all shapes and sizes. Being faced with challenges in business or life is inevitable! The ability to deal with them is what defines a leader. A leader will react to difficult challenges with focus, resolve, and execution. Women in leadership embrace challenges knowing that greater fulfillment, success and growth is obtained when you can adapt to any situation.
Make a Positive Difference... Pay It Forward!
"If you have much, give of your wealth; if you have little, give of your heart." Arab Proverb
Paying it Forward Pays Back is based on a single principle, if you do a good deed for someone, do it without personal gain. Women in leadership believe in the concept of 'Pay it Forward'. They have a tremendous desire to give back to others. It is an essential element of being an outstanding leader.
Natalie MacNeil, Media Producer & Consultant and award winning blogger practices what she preaches. She spends considerable amount of time volunteering with the not-for-profit that she co-founded as well as many other organizations. MacNeil says, "Success is being able to make a living doing what I love and inspiring others to do the same. I measure success in how many people I can reach and inspire".
In conclusion, with leadership comes responsibility. It is important to find a striking balance as well as continually improve upon your leadership skills. What do you think of these five characteristics? What does it take to be a great leader?
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