Why I Didn’t Host an International Women’s Day Event This Year

For the first time in 9 years, I didn’t host an event for International Women’s Day.

And honestly? It was a decision rooted in something I value just as much as celebrating women: protecting my mental and emotional well-being.

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know how much I love creating events. I thrive on bringing people together—creating meaningful conversations, sparking collaborations, and holding space for women to connect, share, and grow. Whether it’s a full-day in-person gathering, a powerful online experience, or a quietly transformational circle within my membership, I love being a host.

So stepping back from hosting something this IWD wasn’t a decision I took lightly.

But it was a conscious one. A choice made with intention, not guilt.

Taking the Pressure Off

The truth is, running a high-quality event—especially one that aligns with the values and energy I want to put into the world—takes a lot. Sales, promotion, tech, systems, admin, prep, costs… it’s a whole machine behind the scenes. And while I’m usually more than happy to pour my heart and soul into that, this year I just didn’t have the capacity to give it what it needed without compromising my own well-being.

And I’m not here to burn out in the name of women’s empowerment.

Because how can I stand for empowering women if I’m not modelling boundaries, sustainability, and prioritising my own mental health too?

Choosing Contribution Over Creation

This year, I gave myself permission to contribute to other people’s events instead of being the one to create. It was such a refreshing shift. It reminded me that we don’t always have to be the ones building the stage—we can stand in the audience and still show up with power and presence.

I engaged with others’ work, I celebrated women around me in quieter, more personal ways, and I showed up with intention inside my own spaces—especially inside the Tribe, my membership for female founders and trailblazing women in business.

Just because you didn’t see a public-facing event from me, doesn’t mean I wasn’t celebrating and supporting women.

The Work Continues—Every Day

The truth is, my work in empowering and supporting women happens every single day. It’s in the conversations I hold in DMs. It’s in the check-ins inside our WhatsApp groups. It’s in the masterminds, the behind-the-scenes cheerleading that happens inside the Tribe. It’s in the introductions I make, the voices I lift, the encouragement I give.

It’s just less visible sometimes. It’s not on a stage or a timeline or an RSVP list. But it’s there. Deeply, powerfully, and consistently.

I think it’s important to remind ourselves that not everything has to be high-profile to be high-impact.

Leadership Doesn’t Always Look Loud

One of the things I’ve always believed is that leadership can look many different ways. Sometimes it’s the one with the mic in her hand. Sometimes it’s the one quietly holding space. Sometimes it’s the woman who says, “Not this year. I’m protecting my peace.”

IWD is about celebrating progress and pushing for equity, yes. But it’s also about recognising that women deserve rest, compassion, and care. We are allowed to take the pressure off. We are allowed to opt out of hustle (as you know I’m a proud anti-hustle advocate) and still be powerful change-makers.

So, no—I didn’t host an event this year.

But I’m still here. Still celebrating women. Still doing the work. Just a little more softly this time.

To those of you who’ve made similar choices this year: I see you. You’re not less committed. You’re not less of a leader. You’re honouring yourself—and that matters just as much.

Here’s to all the ways we show up for women. Loudly or quietly, on stage or in our everyday actions, with fanfare or with grace.

Happy International Women’s Day—every day. ??

Hi, I’m Sarah.

I’m here to champion women building bold, joyful, purpose-led businesses – on their own terms. Through my membership, the Tribe, and my award-winning Come Network With Me community, I create supportive, honest, and inspiring spaces where female founders can grow, connect and thrive – in business and in life.

I’ve helped thousands of women boost their confidence, build meaningful connections, and grow businesses they never thought possible – all rooted in compassion, integrity, honesty, community, and fun (because joy is a business strategy too!).

I’m a half-glass-full kind of woman who loves a good charity shop rummage, bright colours, 80s music, running, a calming peppermint tea, and cosy cuddles with my four cats in my colourful Bristol home. I’m also a single mum of two and a big believer that business should support your life – not the other way round.

If you’re looking for connection, encouragement, and a community that’s got your back – come and explore the Come Network With Me Directory – a space to be seen, found and celebrated.

?? Explore the CNWM Directory – where brilliant women in business shine.