As we emerge from the autumn equinox and settle into the rhythms of fall, we’re honouring Thanksgiving in Canada and Indigenous People's Day and finding ourselves in a space of reflection and curiosity.
We acknowledge the complex emotions this time can stir—gratitude for abundance intertwined with awareness of historical & present-day injustices.
Our recent experiences, from facilitating a Women's Summit on Allyship in San Diego, CA to personal moments of inspiration and exhaustion (both physical and emotional), have deepened our understanding of the issues impacting many professional women.
The Invisible Labor We Shoulder
As you gather for celebrations, we invite you to notice who's doing the invisible work—the planning, shopping, and emotional managing. Rose Hackman's book "Emotional Labor” brings to life many of the themes emerging from the recent Summit and the Corporate Women's Circles we facilitate:
- Emotional labor extends across personal and professional spheres
- Unequal distribution reinforces traditional gender roles
- This invisible work is exhausting us to our core
Can you recall a recent instance where you found yourself shouldering invisible labor? How did it impact you?
Global Workplace Realities
The Deloitte Women at Work 2024 report reveals some stark truths about the water we are swimming in:
- 50% of women are experiencing increased stress levels from last year
- 43% have encountered microaggressions or harassment
- 48% of primary earners still manage most childcare responsibilities
These statistics are even more prevalent for women of color and other marginalized communities.
How do these statistics resonate with your experiences or those of women in your professional circle?
Germinating Seeds of Change
Despite these challenges, we're witnessing positive shifts:
- More women are speaking up about their lived experiences and advocating for change
- Some organizations are prioritizing work-life integration
- There's growing recognition of the need for mental health and menopause support
"My humanity is bound up in yours,
for we can only be human together." -
Desmond Tutu
What positive changes have you observed or initiated in your workplace or community?
Moving Forward Together
At EWC, we're committed to creating transformative spaces for brilliant, aspirational, midlife women.
EWC is a spaces where, together, we:
1. Support one another through life's transitions and bring harmony to hormonal upheaval
2. Lead authentically to transform oppressive systems and workplace practices
3. Embrace practices that honor our whole selves and shared humanity
Consider bringing EWC Corporate Circles to your workplace.
As we gather together, we will create meaningful change to inspire a more fulfilling future for us all.
How are you navigating the balance between gratitude and awareness of systemic challenges in your life?
How might a supportive circle of women leaders impact your professional journey and personal growth?
Wishing you moments of peace and renewal on this Canadian Thanksgiving and Indigenous People's Day,
Catherine and Lisa