Reflecting on the 2019 Wise Women Forum

“Take a moment to bask in the sunshine of other women and embrace courage in big and small ways every day.

This past summer, I had the pleasure of hosting the Wise Women Forum in Washington, DC. Over 200 women convened to discuss courage and empowerment, leadership, and women in the workplace. The room radiated energy, excitement and passion.

We were honored to have former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright join us for the discussion. She shared insights and lessons she’s learned along the way.

Hearing from Secretary Albright was as just as powerful as hearing from our guests. Surrounded by inspiration and passion, our guests opened up about both positive and negative personal experiences, struggles they have faced, and what it takes to be a path-paving woman in the workplace

As I reflect on this amazing experience, there are three main takeaways that I’m going to strive to remember every day

1. Find your voice and learn to interrupt: Secretary Albright told us “if you’re going to participate and you’re the only woman, you’re going to have to interrupt." Active listening is the art of listening while actively finding a space to insert yourself. I was enlightened by her advice to not hesitate to speak up, while still respecting the views and opinions of others. “You can’t assume that everyone agrees with your views. We don’t all think alike”. It’s okay to not like other women’s viewpoints but you should still find ways to respect and support them. 
2. Learn from those around you, especially those younger than you: I learn so much about how to be both a leader and a team member from those around me. I am grateful to be surrounded by such inspirational people in both my professional and personal life. It’ s important not to only “look up” for sources of learning and like Secretary Albright said, “the older I get, the younger are my teachers”.
3. Bask in each other’s sunshine: We need to bask in the sunshine of other women in our circles. Often at times we find ourselves judging other people out of insecurity. Secretary Albright shared that some of her biggest critics were women. It’s imperative that women actively support each other both in and out of the workplace. As a leader, I want to make sure that the women work with have the support they need to be successful and to be confident that I will bask in their sunshine.

I look forward to continuing the conversation about courage and empowerment for women in the workplace. For me, each day is going to begin with a renewed focus on these three simple, yet powerful, actions.