Small Changes That Will Make a Big Difference in Your Life
As we enter the final days of January, many individuals who set New Year’s resolutions are already taking steps towards achieving their goals. However, if you haven’t yet charted a course for self-improvement this year, fear not— it is never too late to start.
Woman magazine spoke with leaders of non-governmental organizations dedicated to improving the lives of women, who shared valuable insights on what women can do to succeed in 2024. Glory Livingstone, co-founder, and director of The Voice Organization, a non-profit focused on mental health education, emphasizes the crucial role that good health plays in achieving one’s goals.
Often, mental well-being takes a back seat when setting life goals. Glory advocates for recognizing the relationship between physical health and mental health. She notes that anxiety and depression are common setbacks that prevent women from reaching their full potential. According to data from the World Health Organization, depression is 50 percent more prevalent among women compared to men, highlighting the importance of addressing mental health as a factor in achieving personal goals.
To succeed in 2024, Glory recommends aligning goals with a commitment to optimal health. She notes that challenges like gender discrimination and wage disparities contribute to increased rates of poverty, hunger, malnutrition, domestic violence, and sexual abuse, all of which hinder progress. The Voice Organization conducts various programs and campaigns to address these issues, including awareness campaigns, entrepreneurship seminars, and self-care programs.
Glory advises women to cultivate positivity, nurture relationships, practice mindfulness, express gratitude, and foster connections as part of their journey towards success this year. She emphasizes the importance of self-prioritization, realistic goal-setting, stress management, and knowing when to set boundaries and say no to prevent burnout. Seeking help when needed is not a sign of weakness but rather a symbol of strength in coping with mental health challenges. It is crucial to remember that mental health is vital for overall well-being, so taking care of oneself should be a priority.
For those looking to venture into entrepreneurship, Neema Mbilinyi, CEO of Johngs Investment, shares valuable insights. She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to cultivate a daring spirit, resilience, and strategic investment despite challenges. Neema stresses the significance of providing excellent services, producing high-quality products, and collaborating within the entrepreneurial community. She advises against underestimating others’ products, encourages sharing information, and giving advice when needed. Johngs Investment plans to empower women in rural areas with entrepreneurship education, equipping them with the knowledge to start and grow their own businesses.
Iman Henrick, a journalist and advocate for digital rights, highlights the importance of navigating the digital space cautiously. She advises women to consume online information with caution, be vigilant about online harassment, and report abuse while safeguarding privacy. Iman reminds women that their social media histories matter and that their online presence can impact opportunities. Cautiously disclosing sensitive information to artificial intelligence programs is crucial to avoid security breaches.
As we embrace the promises of 2024, it is important to remember that success extends beyond the achievement of goals; maintaining a healthy mindset is equally significant. Supporting one another throughout the journey, regardless of the stage, is essential. By lifting each other up, women can collectively make 2024 a year of success and triumph, where every individual can fulfill their long-standing aspirations.
