Blog

Women’s History is Our Future

March is National Women’s History Month–which has roots going back to a seminal day in NYC on March 8th, 1857. Garment workers took to the streets demanding improved working conditions, a ten-hour day, and equal rights for women. This month is a time to celebrate all the accomplishments women have made over the years and give attention and momentum to the work ahead on women’s empowerment.

As CEO & Founder of HealthSense, a women’s owned business, I am acutely aware that my success as an entrepreneur has flourished because I stand on the shoulders of the brave and determined women’s advocates that came before me. Women like the marcher’s and picketers, the journalists and authors, and those early corporate pioneers who edged their way in the door of the C-Suites. These trailblazers gave voice and inspiration to those who long felt ignored and undervalued. This month also gives me pause to reflect on educators, mentors and organizations that have given me the courage to start my own business.

In 1996, when I first felt a stirring of “Can I do this?”, I joined an incredible non-profit membership and networking organization called the aging life care association. Thanks to the amazing support of national and regional women entrepreneurs, I successfully launched my care management consulting practice. When I need a business refresher or retreat, I often gravitate to offerings that focus on women’s needs. For example, the woman owned coaching business, Wide Awake Business, offers vibrant and empowering Lead Her Up retreats. Women leading other women up is uniquely important as we understand the inherent challenges and opportunities for women to thrive in the workplace including: work life and family balance, flexibility, mentorship, collaboration, and community. Beyond women supporting women, we also need the support of men–fathers, brothers, sons, educators, work colleagues and leaders who believe that an empowered and supported woman has much to give to the world. To that end, women’s empowerment is a core value both personally and professionally and women’s history month reminds me to try every day to pay it forward for others.

Written by Anne Sansevero