I am Woman: embracing my feminine energy.

In the midst of Women’s month, there are a number of topics, all of them relevant, that serve as a reminder of all the roles we play and all we face as women. However, something that does require some attention, is embracing those things that make us “women.” 

In a world where patriarchy has been prevalent for the last couple of centuries, the voices of women are rising stronger and louder than ever before. There’s a part of me however that is keenly aware of the fact that we have been taught to fight and think “like a man.” This is particularly true in the professional sector. While we don’t bash men here, let it be known that ‘masculinity doth not maketh the boss lady’. James’s Brown sang “This is a man’s world…” He continues with the line that really grabbed my attention, “But it wouldn't be nothing, nothing without a woman or a girl.” 

I believe there’s a reason for that distinction. I believe the distinction is the femininity, the beauty, the empathy, the compassion, the ability to build and birth new things that we bring to the table as women. Enter the workplace, and it appears that women were expected to swop out dresses for suits, anything remotely feminine for the masculine in order to prove they have “what it takes” to be the corporate executive. Regardless how this belief started, the truth is it’s a narrative that we have accepted. So perhaps, we become acquainted with our femininity.

Or should I rather say our feminine energy? Feminine energy is not based on our gender, but rather qualities that we are taught (many innately born with) as girls. “Feminine energy is power. Feminine essence is flow. It is fullness. It is radiance and it is life force itself. It is an instinctual wild nature that all women possess. It is the unexplainable knowing. It is chaos and wilderness,” Anna Rova. Qualities that were initially considered “feminine” such as empathy, compassion, nurturing and the distinctive ability to collaborate are increasingly acknowledged as crucial in the evolution of workplace culture. 

Co-author of The Feminine Revolution: 21 Ways To Ignite The Power Of Your Femininity For a Brighter Life And A Better World, Amy Stanton, highlights that every single one of us possess both masculine and feminine energies. She encourages us to tap into our feminine qualities, despite society’s thoughts about them, as they are a source of power: “It's a power that comes from being more connected to your authentic self.”There is sufficient science behind the power of traditionally “feminine” traits. It’s simply time that we embrace what comes naturally to us. 

Collaboration: A key feminine trait, and a cornerstone of the End Girl Hate Philosophy, is the ability to collaborate. My view is that collaboration allows you to engage with the people and world around you in a more creative and innovative manner, which accelerates productivity and results. Women are always thinking about “we,” whether in the home, amongst friends or communities at large. We have the ability to bring resources together for the benefit of all. #collaborationovercompetition

Empathy: Research by Development Dimensions International, a global leadership consulting firm, has brought to light that empathy is the “single most important leadership trait that helps guarantee overall success.” It is instilled in us ladies, own it for the success of all. 

Nurturing: In the workplace, this is not about mothering, but rather creating space for trust, support and care. In this kind of environment, anyone would thrive because they are seen, heard, and cared for. 

Generosity and Balance: The ability to share information, contacts, support and advice and balance refers to knowing that our personal lives are important and giving it the due it deserves. 

Intuition: We are intuitive beings. Oftentimes, “we just know” and when the conviction is strong enough, we act because we have combined our rational and intuitive minds. 

Vulnerability: This trait cannot be broached without referring to the 21st century teacher on vulnerability Brene Brown: “Daring greatly means the courage to be vulnerable. It means to show up and be seen. To ask for what you need. To talk about how you’re feeling. To have the hard conversations.”

These are not just theories or ideas. These have been in existence since the age of man and they are now simply being recognised as they should be. These are what we instantly lean into our intuition, our gentleness as women and if we’re honest, these are the times we always win. 

Women excelling as entrepreneurs all exhibiting these characteristics are the inimitable Maya Angelou, Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Jacinda Ardern, Thuli Madonsela, London Breed, Yvonne Chaka Chaka and when we continue to think about it, the list goes on and on. 

Ladies, step into your power...embrace your feminine energy and thrive as you lead. I leave you with the immortal words of Maya Angelou. 

“Now you understand

Just why my head’s not bowed.   

I don’t shout or jump about

Or have to talk real loud.   

When you see me passing,

It ought to make you proud.

I say,

It’s in the click of my heels,   

The bend of my hair,   

the palm of my hand,   

The need for my care.   

’Cause I’m a woman

Phenomenally.

Phenomenal woman,

That’s me.”

By Kim Jansen | Creative Content

Instagram @kimjansen777

Facebook: Kim Ilana Jansen