Choosing Women Is a Radical Act — And It Starts With You

Last Wednesday, during a gathering focused on the theme "Choose Women," I asked a simple question: “Who chose you?” The responses came quickly—mothers, mentors, teachers, friends, managers, grandmothers, coaches. Women who opened doors, spoke our names in rooms we weren’t in, and reminded us of our worth when we forgot it ourselves. This moment revealed a powerful truth: none of us rises alone.

Yet, many women grow up believing success is a solo journey. They think there are only a few seats at the table, that they must compete fiercely for power, and that being chosen is a rare privilege. What if we changed that story? What if choosing women became a daily leadership habit? And what if it began with choosing yourself?

Choosing yourself is not selfish. It is essential. You cannot lead, support, or advocate sustainably if you are disconnected from your own needs, values, and strength. Self-abandonment is not a requirement for success—presence is. Being intentional means showing up fully, grounded, and aware. Presence is respect, both for yourself and for others.

Why Choosing Women Matters Today

Women today lead companies, shape policies, build movements, raise families, and create culture—often all at once. Despite these achievements, many women experience professional loneliness. Being the only woman in the room, facing interruptions, being underestimated or overlooked during critical career moments is common.

Choosing women changes this reality. It is not about slogans or performative gestures. It is about consistent, visible action. Choosing women is not charity. It is a strategy, a form of solidarity, and a leadership practice.

Leadership requires discernment, especially in a world that often rewards superficial performance. Choosing women means making thoughtful decisions about who to support, amplify, and include. It means recognizing the value of collective success over individual gain.

How Choosing Women Starts With Choosing Yourself

Choosing yourself is the foundation of this practice. It means:

• Knowing your values and boundaries

• Prioritizing your well-being

• Being present in your interactions

• Recognizing your worth and potential

  
  

When you choose yourself, you create space to choose others authentically. You can advocate for women in ways that are sustainable and meaningful because you are grounded in your own strength.

For example, a woman leader who sets clear boundaries around her time and energy can better mentor others without burning out. A professional who knows her values can make decisions that uplift other women rather than competing against them.

Choosing women begins with self-reflection and intentional leadership

Practical Ways to Choose Women Every Day

Choosing women is a daily practice that can take many forms. Here are some practical ways to make it part of your leadership style:

• Speak up for women who are not in the room

Mention their names, share their ideas, and invite their participation. This simple act can open doors and create opportunities.

• Mentor and sponsor

Offer guidance, share knowledge, and advocate for women’s advancement. Sponsorship goes beyond mentoring by actively promoting women for roles and projects.

• Celebrate achievements

Recognize and celebrate women’s successes publicly. This builds confidence and visibility.

• Create inclusive spaces

Foster environments where women feel safe, heard, and valued. This includes addressing interruptions and biases in meetings.

• Collaborate rather than compete

Build networks of support and partnership. Collaboration strengthens communities and creates more opportunities for all.

The Impact of Choosing Women on Communities

When women choose women, communities thrive. This practice builds trust, resilience, and collective power. It challenges the myth that success is limited and competitive. Instead, it creates a culture of abundance and shared growth.

Consider organizations that have embraced this approach. They often report higher employee satisfaction, better retention rates, and more innovative outcomes. Women leaders who choose women create ripple effects that benefit everyone.

Moving Forward: Your Role in Choosing Women

Choosing women starts with a decision you make every day. It begins with choosing yourself and extends to the women around you. It requires intention, courage, and consistency.

Ask yourself:

• Who can I support today?

• How can I create space for women’s voices?

• Am I showing up fully and authentically?

  
  

By making these choices, you contribute to building empowered communities where women rise together.