It’s Women’s History Month – a time for celebrating the strong, empowered trailblazers who have been kicking open doors of opportunity for generations to come. These women didn’t need an invitation to shake things up, they took it upon themselves to break down the barriers of inequality. The lessons taught by these influencers are still relevant today. Take note and celebrate your inner strength this month and always.
Lesson 1: Be a Role Model
“Each person must live their life as a model for others.” – Rosa Parks
If something isn’t sitting right with you, make an example of yourself. Take this lesson from Rosa Parks, who after refusing to give up her seat to a white passenger in the midst of a segregated political battlefield, caused the game-changing Montgomery Bus Boycotts. It may feel uncomfortable to stand up for yourself, but no one else knows your cause more than you do. Sometimes in order to see change, you have to be the change. And speaking up is all it takes to get the ball rolling. Remember: Empowered women empower women.
Lesson 2: Knowledge is Power
“I don’t mind if I have to sit on the floor at school. All I want is education. And I’m afraid of no one.” – Malala Yousufzai
Few things are more life-changing than a proper education. After being shot in the head for pursuing her right to education, Malala Yousufzai had become an international inspiration for women’s rights at just 15 years old. Education isn’t just powerful when you’re young or in school. Take the time to learn more about the injustices you may be facing throughout all walks of life. You could be the one that sparks a positive change by informing others.
Lesson 3: Dare to Dream Big
“If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.” – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
If you only set goals you know you could achieve, how will you ever discover your true potential? Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the first woman to be elected as Africa’s head of state, is a shining example to women everywhere as she works to promote peace and social and economic development in Liberia. Set goals that you may not be able to immediately picture yourself reaching. Take it one day at a time and set smaller, attainable goals that will help you get there. At the end of it, you’ll be wondering why you hadn’t started sooner.
You might not always feel like you can change the world, but everyone has the power to toss a stone across the water to create ripples. Get out there and make women proud!