I was recently asked what was my message to women on Women's Day. The question, honestly, left me puzzled, for I didn't really think of women as different from men when it comes to being a leader. I've never formed my opinion of someone based on their gender. I've never really considered myself a feminist. Yet as I thought about what I wanted to tell people on Women's Day, I realized I wanted to tell them the thing I've always believed. 

To me, a woman has, is and always will be a leader. A leader in every facet of life, simply because she has the ability to multitask - to get her team to respond, to lend a helping hand to those who need it, to mentor with patience, to deal with myriad emotions and to march on when the rest have stopped. Yet, quite often, she forgets how powerful she is, simply because she chooses to believe what others tell her.

I believe that the only person who has the power to bring you down is YOU. Don’t let someone’s negative attitude or snark comments bog you down. Do what makes you feel like a winner, and don’t let others define what being a winner should mean to you. You are the author of your own success story, so get inspired, stay inspired and continue to inspire all those around you. 

P.S. While I did write this for Women's Day, I believe the message is universal. So don't let someone else be the decision maker for you. Take advice, but make your own mistakes and learn. Don't be so scared of taking risks that you forget to live your life.

The original blog post - https://district92pitstop.wordpress.com/2016/03/08/a-salute-to-the-women-of-district-92/