As discussed in last week’s post, building a collective vision, promotes a process that deepens and reinforces clarity amongst the parts in order to enhance the whole. In this context, empowerment serves as a powerful enabler to build a collective vision. “There is power in support and encouragement. There is power in lifting one another up. This is especially the case for women” (Proulx, 2017).
SO HOW DO WE EMPOWER EACH OTHER AND OURSELVES?
Proulx (2017) provides four steps to empowerment.
- Embrace continual learning
Be curious in the world around you. Expand your current education by gaining an understanding of things that you did not have before. Knowledge assists us to see new things or to see old things differently. By gaining knowledge, we can empower each other and ourselves in knowing more and applying our learning to complex situations.
- Be confident and harness your independence
Take comfort in knowing that you are strong enough to handle any challenge or situation. Focus on being the best ‘you’ that you can be, and encourage others to embrace their strengths and differentiators. We all have the ability to embrace our strength and strive for competence and pride in everything we do.
- Connect and network with individuals and groups
An array of opportunities and possibilities exist to connect with other people. Keep in mind that as humans, we are complex beings with our own individual perspectives of the world. We possess various strengths and weaknesses. Networking allows us to connect and share with each other in order to collaborate and maximize our opportunity to develop, learn and be empowered.
- Believe in yourself
Remember that you can and do influence the world around you. All you need to do is believe in yourself!
BRINGING IT ALTOGETHER
Does any of this resonate with you?
Why not connect with me at rrajab@resonance.net.za
We assist in implementing your vision, empower you to build your future, and reach your full potential
Dr Rooksana Rajab
083 602 5698