Woman to Woman

As women, we need to support, uplift, and inspire our sisters. Women are under attack from all sides. We deal with sexual assault and abuse, misogyny, professional barriers, and spiteful behavior on the daily. It's time to stop fighting, at least among ourselves.

The following are tips on how to embrace and be more friendly to other women:

1. SPEAK 

Speaking won't hurt you!  Many times we don't speak to strangers in fear of rejection but once u break the ice, honestly, strangers are just as happy to speak back.  After all, most relationships start at: Hello! 

2. DONT SHAME OTHER WOMEN

It's time for women to stop shaming each other about anything. Even if you don't agree with a woman's choices, there is no reason to shame her, gossip about her, or judge her. Would you want to be on the receiving end of that?

3. PAY COMPLIMENTS 

Some people never get them (honestly).  Pay compliments freely and sincerely.  Tell a stranger you love her eyes. Tell a coworker she's doing a fantastic job. Tell a friend you're proud of her. Don't be shy about giving compliments.  I promise you they come back!

4. HAVE REAL CONVERSATIONS ABOUT LIFE EXPERIENCE

This goes back to number one. Showing your vested interest in another woman's experiences is an excellent way to support and uplift her.  Get honest, without honesty, we can't make progress.

5. DON'T GIVE INTO GIRL FIGHTS 

Don't give in to that mentality. You are not in competition with other women. You don't make yourself look better when you tear down someone else.

6. SISTERHOOD 

Again, women aren't competition! These are your sisters in solidarity.

7. HANDS OFF

Never ever go after another woman's man, let her finish! You honestly drop your value to discount prices if he's taken; there's no way around it.  Earn respect.  

8. BE FEMALE FRIENDLY 

There is nothing like female friendship. It's all-encompassing, deep, and strong. You don't need a Ya Ya sisterhood, necessarily, but a group of close women friends can change your life for the better.

9. R.E.S.P.E.C.T.

Sometimes, it is really hard to be respectful to some people. Try your best, though, especially when it's hard. You never know what someone else might be dealing with and, besides, there's no reason to let someone else's attitude affect yours.

10. DON'T HATE 

Competition is so toxic that maybe it's time to flip the script. The next time you feel like you have to compete with a woman at work, at the gym, at school, or anywhere else, collaborate with her instead. Two heads are better than one, right?  It's natural to envy someone else's success, but jealousy is toxic, too. Be proud of the women in your life who attain success.

Listen to women when they speak to you. Listen to their experiences. Really hear what they're trying to say, especially if their experiences are different from yours. Never shut down a conversation simply because your experience is different. All women have information you can benefit from so believe their stories, their traumas, their triumphs, and their tragedies. Believe them. Don't automatically doubt the experiences other women share with you.  This is about Women; Team us!