I was just a young girl when Helen Reddy’s iconic song “I am Woman” hit the world stage, but I certainly remember it… and it became an anthem for women the world over who really identified with the lyrics.
Now, as International Women’s Day 2017 dawns with its theme “Be Bold For Change”, my mind’s jukebox automatically loaded “I am Woman”… and I find myself thinking about the relevance today of those amazing lyrics written way back in the 70s.
I am woman, hear me roar In numbers too big to ignore And I know too much to go back an' pretend 'Cause I've heard it all before And I've been down there on the floor No one's ever gonna keep me down again
As I work and collaborate with many business women, as well as women setting up amazing VA businesses, it’s very evident that we are continually “bold for change” in what we do.
In fact, my own journey is definitely one based on being bold – indeed, hungry – for change.
I set up my VA business in 2008 – in fact, I literally LEAPT into my own business – after suffering at the hands of a workplace bully; a boss who took great joy in bringing me to my knees emotionally. Setting up my VA business helped me regain my confidence, and I was able to build a business that I’m proud of, one that sustains me financially AND emotionally.
You can bend but never break me 'Cause it only serves to make me More determined to achieve my final goal And I come back even stronger Not a novice any longer 'Cause you've deepened the conviction in my soul
My experience over the past 9 years has seen me work with some absolutely amazing women in the VA industry – an industry which, in itself, is really still in its infancy (certainly here in Australia). It’s an industry that supports those who step into it to realise their potential, their skills, and their ability to provide a service to businesses regardless of their age and location, whilst allowing them the flexibility and freedom to find that precious work/life balance that women – the mothers, daughters, wives in our society – so yearn for!
I am woman watch me grow See me standing toe to toe As I spread my lovin' arms across the land But I'm still an embryo With a long, long way to go Until I make my brother understand
So, to all you wonderful women out there, take a moment to reflect on your journey and rejoice in your achievements, and have a fabulous International Women’s Day on March 8, 2017!
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