by Deanna Collins
When people are working towards achieving goals and amibitions, even when times are tough they may turn in many different directions to get some form of support. However, the most successful people are able to achieve their amibitions with the power and strength they find with their inner resources.
The ability for a woman to grab hold of self-empowerment is dependent upon the skills she is able to learn. Empowered women are already on the path leading to accomplishing their goals as well as satisfying the needs of their family, their community as well as their own as individuals. Others have them, but need only develop them further.
The Elements of Empowerment
Whether is be economic, political or social, empowerment has many faces. The reasoning behind many women seeking empowerment could be a matter of personal development. Empowerment allows women to find within themselves the necessary resources needed to overcome hindrances as well as hardships. This whole process feeds on itself. By being a pro-active woman you improve self-esteem and effectiveness, boosting confidence and self-image all while earning the respect of others.
Disempowered people are often marginalized by forces that seem to be beyond their control-that could be in the family, the workplace or the community. Whatever the particular scenario, individual empowerment is fundamental. Group empowerment depends on individuals who have developed the positive outlook, skills and motivation to take the steps that can make a difference.
Women Empowering Themselves
Though much has been done to address gender discrimination, women remain more likely to find themselves disempowered in a variety of situations, especially in the family and in the workplace. The solution is clear: women need to seek out, build and claim power. The method for achieving a particular goal may require much thought and work, but personal empowerment is the place to start.
With this realization of self-potential, women are better equipped to take on more complex problems. There is proof to be clearly seen in this regard worldwide, for example in African and many more under-developed countries in which it’s possible to find women’s initiatives which have empowered not only themselves but whole communities.
Empowerment Strategies
Education: Education is a very powerful way for women to find their ability to discover new and better ways to reach the achievement of their goals. With the power of knowledge within reach, as well as knowing the different options available for the achievement of these tasks we wish to accomplish, learning is essential in making the best possible decisions.
Make positive choices: Education can provide the analytical skills necessary to decision-making and the evaluation of different risks. When you hold a good knowledge base of available choices you have, confident decisions are easier to make.
Positive attitudes and thoughts: With numerous studies having been conducted in the field of psychology, it has been shown how different patterns of negative thinking are in fact alterable with the help of cognitive therapy. A simple journal in which you keep track of your positive achievements could prevent any type of defeatist or pessimistic attitude from having the chance to destroy any individual’s motivation.
Self-esteem and confidence-building: Education and a track record of achievements, no matter how small, can boost confidence and self-esteem and foster initiative. Initiative is a matter of creative thinking, knowledge and confidence.
Interpersonal/communication skills: Many things in life require persuasion and co-operation with others. Good communication skills help move things forward.
By developing their skills and awareness, individually or collectively, women can empower themselves in order to realize their potential, with benefits for themselves and their loved ones.
Self-empowerment comes from within, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get support along the way. Visit the Gratitude Circle Blog for tips finding your internet power source and making gratitude an important part of your life. While you’re there, claim your free subscription to the Gratitude Circle Newsletter, chalk-full of inspiring stories, articles and tips for maintaining a happier, more fulfilling life.
