March 8, 2018
International Women’s Day – Supporting others
On International Women’s Day I am always reminded of the Madeline Albright quote:
‘There is a special place in hell for women that don’t support other women’.
So I am dedicating this post to some key women in my life that have provided me with tremendous support.
Many thanks to…
To my Mum, Margaret, who always encouraged me to be whatever I could. She was a strong feminist before I had even heard of the word. With the exception of when she couldn’t understand why I didn’t do my husband’s, ironing.
My mother in law, Jan, who never judged me for being a working mother and provided support by looking after the girls when they were younger.
To Gail, my best mate, who is my running, debriefing and drinking partner (normally one straight after the other and sometimes all at once). She keeps me grounded.
My long term friend Rose, who has been supporting me for over 40 years. Even though she lives in another country she is always there for me.
To my Cluddies, the clients that have become buddies. While there are too many to mention, I wanted to give a special shout out to Jac Phillips and Natalie Mina who continue to open doors for me.
To my peers who I have the pleasure of running women in leadership programs. Michelle Sales, Kieran Flanagan and Janine Garner whom I learn so much from.
To my Executive Manager, Elise, who makes my life easier and work more fun. She continues to be a brilliant collegue, friend and sounding board. She also edits and publishes my blogs so she could potentially write anything here. (You asked for it – Gabrielle! Here’s a piano playing pug just for fun.)
Finally to my daughters Alex and Jess who make life more interesting and always hold a metaphorical mirror up to me in a bid to keep me honest.
To ALL the women in my life who support me, we will meet up many times in different places but it will not be hell.
Who will you thank?
On International Women’s Day I encourage you (male or female) to acknowledge the women that support you and to think about how you can support them.