Let’s take a collective deep breath in...and out. (Now repeat that three more times.)
2020 has been tough. In the climate of “cancel culture,” pushing pause on this year and fast-forwarding to 2021 is tempting.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama discussed in her podcast how the events of 2020 have her suffering from a low-grade depression. Her words on how she is dealing with the highs and lows caught my attention: know yourself and do the things that bring you joy.
2020 has tested me as a leader. It has forced me to slow down, think deeply, and prioritize things that truly matter. It’s challenged my assumptions and prompted important self-discoveries. I will leave this year a better person and professional. One who is more grounded and grateful. But most importantly, a leader who is growing again in valuable ways. I bet the same is true for you, whether you realize it or not.
As for joy, few things generate as much for me as the Annual IWL Fall Women's Leadership Conference. The connections. The inspiration. The momentum of advancing female leaders. The engagement of male allies. Yet this year, some questioned whether we should cancel it. Luckily, IWL’s fantastic team, board, and conference planning committee rallied together ensuring the conference was not another 2020 casualty. Especially when the pandemic is hitting the progress made toward gender equality especially hard.
But just hosting the event was not enough. We committed to make it the best event in our history—and we have! The switch to virtual for our 11th Annual Fall Women's Leadership Conference created new possibilities for on-demand breakout sessions, a “Power Hour of Happiness,” at-home networking, and even a surprise delivered straight to attendees. Our reach with virtual is even greater since we no longer have geographical boundaries. In a time when we’re all feeling perhaps a bit low, the IWL Fall Conference is reaching new highs!
We can let 2020 devour us or it can empower us. Yes, the year has created challenges, but it’s brought amazing opportunities as well. “Know yourself and do the things that bring you joy.” I hope IWL and the upcoming conference help you do both!
