Today we celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) - and even though it is a day we celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, it is also a day to stand still by all the challenges and inequality we still face as women worldwide. IWD: 5 Ways to Challenge Yourself And Break The Bias

This IWD we want to raise awareness around gender inequality and keep empowering women and men to break the bias. From a more equal and inclusive boardroom representation to gender balance and inclusivity in public decision-making bodies and improved quality of life for all women.

In order to break the bias, you need to be aware of what biases you might have. There are tons of ways to challenge yourself (and others) to make the world a better and more inclusive place for women. We have summed up 5 that are a pretty good starting point:

1. Do the test and check your biases

You might not be aware of your biases or you might have some that you didn't even know about. Harvard developed a test that will allow you to become aware of them, which is very helpful if you would like to improve your behaviour and thinking. You can do the test here! 

2. Start at home

Teach them young! Kids are like sponges and what they see and learn at home or in schools often stays with them for the rest of their lives.

3. Challenge microaggressions

‘’You must be on your period’’ or ‘’You are being very aggressive’’ when you are being assertive. ‘’Stop being so emotional’’ when you or responding more passionately are phrases that most women have heard in their career or life in general. Whether you are a woman or a man, challenge these microaggressions whenever you hear them (even if it is not directed at you).

4. Stop judging women leaders more harshly than men

Women in leadership positions are often more harshly judged than men. They cannot make the same mistakes as men (they are fired quicker). Assertiveness is often mistaken for being a b*tch and their performance is judged stricter as well.

5. Diversity and inclusion

Women with a minority background (e.g. POC, LGBTQ) often face even more biases in the workplace but also in life in general. Having a more diverse workplace or group of friends does not only broaden your own perspective, but you also become even more aware of biases you have. Challenge your own biases and speak up whenever a bias needs to be challenged. Together, we can all break the bias and support women- on IWD and beyond.

While you're working on your daily plan, it's super important to track your self-care. Start by writing down the meals you're planning for the day, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and any snacks you're having. This will help you stay on top of your health and give you a written log of what you're planning to eat every day. You can do this ahead too, simply turn the page and write it down.

Getting your life together is all about keeping it aligned and balanced, it's just as important to prep those meals as it is to stay on top of your daily goals.