Back to all posts
Two suitcases, 2 small children, and a one way ticket around the world.
Leaving everything, my grandmother took a big risk to build something new… her family’s life.
Leaving a small home, with dirt floors, in a small village of southern China – she moved to the busy city of Chicago.
Ultimately she raised 6 children in this new place. She worked as a factory manager – which as an accomplishment being a foreign woman with broken English.
My grandmother (my Pua-Pua) is an inspiration to me in strength, resilience, and working towards a dream – as I reflect on this International Women’s Day.
(The picture is not my grandmother… but reminded me a lot of her).
"A girl should be two things: who and what she wants."
Most people wouldn’t call my grandmother a leader. But that’s how I see her.
She led her family. She led people at work. She led her life in the way she wanted.
My grandmother made a difference, where she put her energy, and made things happen.
We tend to see the things that are typically assigned to women – as ordinary. As expected. And not a big deal.
Caring for children… is actually leading the most important organization of tiny people – people of our future.
Organizing events… is actually leading the creation of amazing experiences of learning, connection & joy.
When we can fail to see the importance of some of these roles – we fail to see the potential of other leadership for women (or ourselves).
Take a moment and re-define for yourself… the impact a woman truly has in your life.
Whether that’s your spouse, mother, manager, direct report, team member, coworker… or you.
Happy International Women’s Day!
“A girl should be two things: who and what she wants.”
– Coco Chanel
French fashion designer and businesswoman
