March 8th marks International Women’s Day, an opportunity to consider the role of gender in our lives. It is not only a time to reflect on the past: routes we’ve taken, our achievements and losses, but also assess the present and plan for the future.
Equality & Equity
For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Leanne Spencer. I’m a keynote speaker and author with 10 years of experience and 13 qualifications in exercise, nutrition and wellbeing.
Personally, I think wellbeing is a very broad term. One thing, however, that undoubtedly contributes to it is a sense of equity and equality. Amongst other aspects, such as variety in life or having autonomy over your destination and the decisions you make. And the wider world can put a squeeze on all of this. What I mean is simply this: if we’re not treated equally, we don’t have that feeling of equity. As a result, this impacts the way we perceive the world, what happens, and our place within it. And this can profoundly affect our mental health, causing increased levels of stress and anxiety.
A Wider World
We all bring different experiences, perspectives and aptitudes, and must appreciate them for what they are. We don’t create stereotypes and make judgements or perceive one sex to be weaker than the other or better at particular roles. I have two young godchildren, girl and boy, 10 and eight, and want them both to truly believe we’re all equal and can achieve whatever we desire, and for the wider world to reflect that. And this is only possible when we allow diversity to enrich our lives.
So, I hope you have a wonderful International Women’s Day – however you choose to celebrate it – and wish you all the very best.
Wellbeing Resources
In her latest book, Cadence, Leanne breaks down each stage of burnout using stories and examples including tips to help you apply each principle of the simple and effective Cadence Approach™ to your life. Available to buy now on Amazon.
If you frequently sit or stand at a desk for most of the day, check out our free Posture Guide For Desk Workers. This will help to ensure your workstation is set up correctly. It also includes some easy-to-follow tips and advice on being active, staying healthy, avoiding any musculoskeletal issues.
