Let's Build Each Other Up - International Women's Day

I wanted to write this post after International Women's Day, to see what the general response to this day would be on other social media channels. This year was the same as the last few, with more people questioning what the point in International Women's Day is and 'is it not just a day of man bashing?' Here's my take on it.

For me it serves as a reminder that as women we should be building each other up, not tearing each other down. I use it as a time to be appreciative of both all the women in my life, and also all of the men who support me and encourage me to achieve more. 

Sure, some people use it as a chance to hate on men, but that isn't the point of International Women's Day. Supporting women and tearing down men are two very different things.

I got inspired by @ingaaa 's post and decided to also speak about the people who impact my life most as a woman.

image via Pintrest

1. My family

My mum is emotionally the strongest woman I know. She's been through a lot in her life and yet still manages to keep everything together. She's a constant reminder of strength.

My dad has done so much to provide for me and ensure I had the best education and start in life. He expects me to have the same approach to life as any man would and treats me no differently as a woman, which I truly appreciate and respect. 

My sisters and brother are a constant support and when you need it most, family really is everything.

2. My friends

I am lucky to be surrounded by a handful of incredible women. I have both male and female friends, but I find I have deeper, more meaningful bonds with women. As I go through life, I've found I acquire a few new friends from every experience, whether it be school, uni, work, moving countries.. whatever it may be. Some friends you keep just because your friendship has stood a test of time, and some friends you genuinely connect with on a deep level. 

All of my female friends who I engage with regularly are strong, hard-working, creative, independent, driven women and i'm very grateful to be surrounded with them. I think it's important to have friends that make you a better version of yourself and push you to succeed in your own way. 

@ingaaa, is definitely included in this and somewhere at the top of all the women I value and am inspired by most. Not only have I know here for 14 years, but she's also one of my closest friends. She's successful in her own right and whenever we speak and I hear about all the projects and and plans she has, it only spurs me on further into being a better me and kicks me into gear. And that's how I feel it should be. We shouldn't be intimated or saddened by the success of those around us, but instead supportive. To me, seeing the people around me succeed is nothing but pure inspiration and i'm grateful to have people that motivate me. 

3. My peers

image via Pinterest

Most of the people I hang out with on a day to day basis are small business owners. Seeing how they are changing the game in their own way keeps me constantly on my toes. I know that if i'm not continuously moving forward then i'm only falling behind. I think as women in business it's incredibly important that we stand together, build each other up as much as possible and eliminate competition between us.

4. My boyfriend

My boyfriend, Alex. He gives me the freedom and respect as a woman and person to live a life I love, which I truly cherish. He supports me when needed and gives me space to feel completely free and independent. I think it's important to recognise and appreciate relationships of all kinds, not just the female ones, because they all contribute to making us who we are.

5. Role models

image via www.anothermag.com

For me it's important to have people to look up to as role models, to help guide our choices. I admire so many people, but one of the women I always come back to for inspiration for my business is, without a doubt, Iris Apfel. This woman is just magic and she can do no wrong, in my eyes. Her timeless style and grace inspire my the vision for my brand.

That's my 5 main influences as a woman, in honour of International Women's Day.

Who impacts your life most as a woman? 

Yasmine