Less Jealousy, More Empowerment

Women’s empowerment is probably one of the most talked about topics today.  Whether it’s empowering one another, inspiring each other or recognizing others for their accomplishments, many women are cheering each other on.  That is exactly what P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized) is about.  We encourage camaraderie, mentoring, positive influence and recognition to help others get to the next level.

While there are many who encourage empowerment, quite often behind closed doors, one finds the complete opposite taking place.  Jealousy can rear its ugly head and destroy the female bond that is so very much needed.  Women will speak ill of each other due to insecurity, jealousy and fear.  We hear such things as, “She is a bitch…She already makes enough money…Why does she need more when she has a successful partner…Why should she get the recognition and not me?”  Some women will go so far as to post negative comments on social media and in networking forums to ruin a woman’s reputation to appease their own insecurities.  Are they so worried about seeing others succeed that it hinders their own success?

Many women feel threatened by another asking advice or questions about their business practices.  They often have their guard up due to negative experiences from their past.  Others feel inquiries are a form of flattery and a way to help mentor.  If we are going to represent and encourage women’s empowerment, we must put aside our own insecurities in order to move forward.  Embracing others helps us realize that there are enough opportunities for all.

Many women question why it is that we do not hear this same type of behavior in the male population?  Men tend to welcome competition and in most cases, bond together working toward a common goal.  They will help one another network and welcome their competitors into the fold, often referred to as the “old boys club”.  As a matter of fact, some women prefer only to do business with men because they feel men are less jealous and competitive.  Like-minded professionals can be men or women so don’t limit your business relationships.  Through self-confidence, constructive criticism and healthy competition, women can become empowered and realize that together we can move forward and make a positive difference in the world.

Women have broken the glass ceiling and for the most part, are embracing their sisterhood in a positive way.  Let’s learn from one another and, through organizations like P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized), the sky’s the limit!