It’s a bit odd being here in DC today.

Though my own views tend to be pretty bi-partisan to vary by policy, not necessarily party, and I aim to stay pretty non-partisan because I want women rising up as leaders on both sides of the aisle, this post is slightly less non-partisan. To that effect, whether you voted for Trump or not, whether you support him or not, I ask that you keep an open mind.

This is for ALL women.

(Note: If you haven’t read Broad Influence, I highly recommend it. It walks you through how women are literally changing the way America works … from both sides of the aisle. It’s really powerful.)

Like many, I was pretty distraught after Trump was elected. I was pretty stressed throughout the final months of the election as well. Some of the people I love most were supporting Trump and I just couldn’t understand why. It made me feel like I was completely disconnected with them. Not something I’d ever felt with someone who simply had a different opinion on policy.

This election was NOT logical. If I’ve been accused of being emotional, it’s because this election WAS emotional.

It did make me look at WHY it has been so emotional.

Ultimately, as it was for many women I know, the election was incredibly triggering. I realized it was because it’s taken me a long time to own my power and confidence as a woman.

Over the years I’ve had to fight.

I had to fight through the fear of being seen — because the mere fact that I have a full bottom and any sort of a bosom seems enough to welcome comments on my body.

I had to fight the fear of being vulnerable — because showing emotion in professional settings is inappropriate and weak.

I had to fight the fear of success — because who am I?

I’ve fought those fears to now love my body, appreciate the fact that my empathy is part of why I’m successful and own my power and success as a woman and human being intent on helping millions recognize their full potential.

And still I fight. I didn’t realize that I still had to fight so hard until the outcome of this election. Now I’m grateful to have the awareness that I still do have to fight. Because while we’ve come so far, we have so far yet to go before there is true equality for ALL.

I fight for YOU to recognize your own power, confidence and voice.

Because it’s not about me. It’s not about you. It’s about US.

All of us — red, blue, purple, green, yellow and every shade in between.

Coming together.

It’s not about Democrat or Republican. It’s about diversity.

Diversity of opinion, experience, education.

Napoleon Hill talks about the idea of the ‘Master Mind’ which is two or more minds coming together to create something bigger and better than what could have been created by just one.

My hope is YOUR voice.

⇒ Using your voice to engage in conversation with those not just with your same opinions, but with those who have differing opinions. Use your voice to understand your fellow human beings. Start with the common ground that you likely DO have.

⇒ Using your voice to speak up for what you value. In sharing your experiences, your ideas and your best practices, you CAN influence policy.

⇒ Using your voice to to change the energy in the room. You may not realize that you’re a leader, but when you show up and speak up, you’re giving those around you permission to do the same.

As always, I’ve got your back.

Now, more than ever, I believe in the power of women to create the change we need to see in the world.

If we can support you, your work, your message or your tribe in any way, please don’t hesitate to reach out. At the very least, stay connected via social media (see below) for regular inspiration and tools for you to own your power, presence and voice.