It is 2023, and today we have laws and regulations in place to ensure equal representation of genders in the workplace.
Let us take a look at our Honorable President, Droupadi Murmu. Ms. Murmu is the first lady of the Tribal community of India to serve as the President of India and the second lady after Pratibha Patil, and the youngest President of India?
Such inspirational figures are role models for today’s women. But despite the legalities in place, women, even today, push themselves to the point of burnout to prove their mettle.
So, this blog is dedicated to all the amazing women in the workforce and a reminder for all to breathe!
It is alright to say 'No'
We often say yes to a job even when our plates are full. It has been ingrained in us that refusing a job is bad for you.
But that is not the case! You do not have to push yourself to burnout to prove your worth. Agree to do extra tasks as per your capacity without feeling stressed.
Taking an overload of work does not affect your merit. Your capability to perform to perfection is the only thing you need.
You cannot control other's opinions
Women, even today, are told to walk on eggshells and are held responsible for how others behave. But that is an unfair expectation.
Everyone is responsible for their emotions and opinions, and not every day is the same.
Similarly, when at work, you cannot control how others feel or behave. So, focus on maintaining your poise and conducting yourself correctly. However, if their behavior starts affecting you negatively and hampers your productivity, then reach out to your manager or HR as per the situation.
Never stop asking questions
Asking questions has always been considered rude and defensive. But if you do not ask questions, how will you understand what is expected of you?
There is no pride in following instructions like a robot. So, ladies, don't shy away from asking questions, not only to others but to yourself too.
Keep asking the right questions until you have clarity. This will allow you to be confident and make level-headed decisions at work.
Maintain a healthy work-life balance
Ladies! Do not allow work to eat into your time. Everyone is entitled to balance work and personal time, or the equilibrium will go for a toss. So, why shouldn’t you?
Don’t beat yourself up for taking your due leaves and unwinding. After all, all work and no play make everyone a burnt-out employee.
Make it a practice to not revert to work communications after office hours unless there’s an emergency. There is no harm in drawing clear distinctions between work hours and personal time.
Also, whenever you feel overwhelmed, go off the grid. Take a complete break from technology and do what you love to relax.
Take care of yourself
As women, we are expected to care for others, but let us not forget to take care of ourselves in the process.
With long office hours and all the household management, do not ignore your health. Try to work out for 30 minutes daily to improve your health. Use your leaves to unwind and take a break when needed.
This will help you relax and release happy hormones. Not just that, a well-rested mind can help improve your performance at work.
Do not fear failures
As humans, we are always beating ourselves over any unsuccessful task, but this behavior only adds stress to our situation. Instead, go through the incident, find out what went wrong, and take the experience as a learning.
As Richard Branson rightly said, “Do not be embarrassed by your failures, learn from them and start again.”
Conclusion
Ladies, economic independence is a great power, but do not beat yourself up in the process. With International Women’s Day approaching, it is time to prioritize our well-being with our careers as women.
Hopefully, you will find these career lessons helpful and incorporate them into your life from here on.
