How often do you invest in your own learning? It’s not easy to do, especially when our kids and commitments stretch into each moment. But learning and growth, way up at the top of the Mom’s Hierarchy of Needs framework, are an essential part of self-fulfillment. So, there’s something magical about spending the day sharing self-discovery, development and growth experiences with 11,000 women. That’s what it’s like to attend the Massachusetts Conference for Women. An annual celebration and homage to all things women’s leadership.
The motherhood penalty is alive and well, despite our incredible contributions and leadership skills. Women overall remain underrepresented in leadership. And it’s more pronounced in the most influential industries, like government, the world’s largest companies and academia.
The Conferences for Women acknowledge the equity gaps yet celebrate wins. By showcasing women at the tops of their fields and keeping a positive lens on progress. Key themes include demonstrating solidarity for women’s advancement within a supportive community. Luminaries like Simone Biles generously shared her story and the gift of asking for help. Award winning, swimming-powerhouse Diana Nyad was open about overcoming challenges, including trauma, with a supportive team and determined attitude. Mel Robbins shared her candid stories about overcoming despair and procrastination before resetting her life to and rising into her calling.
Managing mental, physical and emotional well-being, especially through times of turmoil and transition were throughlines in this year’s program. In addition to navigating an ever-changing workplace, leadership norms, internal doubts and finding your own definition of significance to choose your values-aligned path.
Below are a few highlights to inspire, validate and help you navigate what’s next:
Rise Over Challenges
“…Onward.” (Not only did she play the trumpet on stage, she ended her speech with everyone singing!)
Diana Nyad, Author, Motivational Speaker, and World Championship Athlete
“Thinking about it will not make it happen. …(You have to) have a bias towards action.”
Mel Robbins, NYT Best-Selling Author, top Podcast host and Entrepreneur
Protect Your Own Energy
“It’s a strength to ask for help and to believe that you deserve it.”
Simone Biles, Olympic Gold Medalist
“We’re usually setting ourselves on fire to keep everyone else warm.”
Dr. Jessica Shepherd, Physician, OBGYN, Author of Generation M and Chief Medical Officer
“The best project in the world to take on is you. …When you make yourself feel better and do better it ripples through and makes your whole life better.”
Mel Robbins, NYT Best-Selling Author, top Podcast host and Entrepreneur
Manage Your Mental Health
“I’m giving my mind and body the rest it needs.”
Simone Biles, Olympic Gold Medalist
“…Emotional wellbeing has a lot to do with chronological aging. Menopause has an impact on women’s emotional resilience and capacity.”
Dr. Jessica Shepherd, OBGYN, Author of Generation M and Chief Medical Officer
Lead with Intention
“Humans are hardwired to compare but not to compete.”
Ruchika T. Malhorta, Author of Uncompete, Speaker and Entrepreneur
Go After your Dreams
“Who you are is not what you think about. It’s what you do every day. …If you want to feel better, act like it. …Action frees you from overthinking and unlocks the cage you’re in right now.”
Mel Robbins, NYT Best-Selling Author, top Podcast host and Entrepreneur
“…I write down three things. 1. what’s the goal? 2. what are the steps to get there and 3. can you and will you execute?”
MJ Acosta-Ruiz, Award Winning Sports Journalist
Play the Long Game
“It’s never too late. If you’re here and you’re breathing, you have time.”
Mel Robbins, NYT Best-Selling Author, top Podcast host and Entrepreneur
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📚 Buy the new book, Repair with Self-Care: Your Guide to the Mom’s Hierarchy of Needs.
Enjoy the gift of more time for wellbeing and growth. Plus delightful self-care packages for Moms, delivered.
Ready to put yourself back onto your to-do list? Take a TimeCheck.
Shared your story yet? Take our quick survey to change how workplaces support parents.
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