Today is International Women’s Day and I thought it would be worthwhile saying a thank you to all of the professional women who have mentored, managed and guided me through my career so far. I’ve been blessed at working for some very talented women to start my career, throughout and in my current role. They’ve kicked my ass when I’ve needed it and I’m sure I’ve repaid them with some gray hairs.
A day like this is a great opportunity to stop and reflect on perspectives. Experience comes from dealing with different situations, overcoming obstacles and understanding all the ways that the world works. Perspectives are key to all of those as every person in the world is shaped by the experiences that led them to where they are. Gender, race, religion, age, education, hometown, grandparents, neighbors, mentors, companies all influence the way any given individual sees the world.
It’s the small things that make this world really amazing. The conversations that happen in a pub over a pint of lager. The pulled-to-the-side education on how you just screwed up. The shared laughs because you pulled off a solution that no one thought you could. These moments change from person to person but they make-up the relationships of our lives. Some lessons are fun to learn, others not so much.
It’s not necessary to agree, but it is necessary to understand. And for that lesson, I will be ever thankful to the women who have influenced me and will continue to influence me.