What I Choose to Do Instead
Every year, as March 8th approaches, there’s a buzz in the air — Women’s Day campaigns, social media shoutouts, gifts, cupcakes, and colorful celebrations. And yet, every year, I find myself feeling… conflicted.
Recently, over a casual coffee break at work, my team brought up the idea of planning something special for Women’s Day. A few gifts, maybe a post or two, some warm gestures to make women feel appreciated. Sweet, right?
But then I said something that surprised even myself:
“I’ve never really liked celebrating Women’s Day.”
There was a pause — confused glances followed.
I could see the question forming on their faces: How could someone who advocates so strongly for women in leadership feel this way?
Here’s what I told them:
“I find it ironic that we’re celebrated for existing one day a year — while the rest of the time, we’re still fighting to prove we belong at the table. What we need isn’t flowers — it’s fairness.”
Because the truth is, I’ve seen far too many organizations hand out roses and chocolates on March 8th, only to return to unequal pay structures, limited opportunities, and outdated workplace policies the very next day.
Don’t get me wrong — I love honoring women. But I believe real celebration means real change.
So, this year, I shared a different idea with my team:
✔ Let’s have honest conversations about the challenges women face in the workplace.
✔ Let’s review how we’re supporting growth for the women on our team.
✔ Let’s mentor, uplift, and open doors for younger women just starting out.
✔ Let’s ask tougher questions — about bias, balance, opportunity, and inclusion.
Because Women’s Day shouldn’t be a feel-good moment. It should be a call to action.
One of my teammates summed it up beautifully:
“Let’s make Women’s Day less about cupcakes, and more about courage.”
And that’s exactly what we intend to do.
💡 What does Women’s Day mean to you?
Are you celebrating with gestures — or pushing for change? Let’s start a conversation that lasts beyond a single day.
#WomenInLeadership #WomensDay2025 #BreakTheBias #RealChange #WomenAtWork #LeadershipMatters #EmpowermentNotGestures #WorkplaceEquity #SheLeads
