How can a woman support different women in her life so friendships can blossom? Think about it while asking yourself these questions, do you…

• Celebrate her achievements?
• Listen actively to what she is saying?
• Encourage her when she needs you?
• Compliment her on a new hairstyle or wardrobe?
• Show empathy?

Embracing your feminine side and supporting others, no matter how they choose to express their femininity, helps create a more inclusive and empowering environment for all women.

If you can answer yes to these questions, then you are a warm woman who delights in giving to others; a woman who receives inner pleasure supporting different women in your life.

Or are you a woman who was raised to be judgemental? Are you all about yourself? Are you a woman who has a jealous streak? Do you lack empathy? Internalized misogyny can sometimes cause women to judge each other harshly, often without realizing it.

If you are that woman or a part of that woman, I suggest you take a good look in your mirror. You will be surprised at just how much it empowers you to be kind and supportive of different women in your life! Sometimes, envy and a negative attitude can damage relationships among women, making it harder to build trust and genuine connections. Friends are important darlings!

Remember, every girl and woman deserves to be uplifted—treat each one as your sister, and together as sisters, we can create a powerful support network. Here are a few ways you can support the different women in your life.

The Heart of Supporting Women

Supporting other women lies at the very heart of building a world where every woman can thrive. When we make it a priority to support other women—whether they are friends, colleagues, or even strangers—we are not just helping them, but also strengthening the fabric of our own lives. In a society that sometimes pits women against each other, it’s more important than ever to celebrate each other’s successes, share our stories, and offer words of encouragement.

By supporting fellow women, we create a ripple effect of empowerment and positivity. Taking care of ourselves is just as important as taking care of others; when we practice self-love and self-care, we are better equipped to lift up those around us. The importance of supporting other women cannot be overstated—it’s about celebrating the big and small victories, listening with empathy, and being present in both joyful and challenging times. Together, by sharing our experiences and championing one another, we can make a real difference in the world and in the lives of the women we cherish.

The Successful Friend

There will always be friends in your life who get the promotions you dreamed of or achieve goals you admire, make more money than you have, set a table better than you can, have daughters-in-law who love them, and look smashing in a new outfit that you wish was yours.  When you are in the presence of this woman and you feel intimidated or jealous, please remember my advice: Practice celebrating her with your support and you will feel differently about yourself.

Every woman deserves to have her achievements celebrated, not only for her accomplishments but also for her resilience and character.

A mood of empowerment and enlightenment will embrace you and your competition and jealousy will be replaced with self-fulfillment, pride, and the realization that this woman’s success can make you a stronger and wiser woman. There is room for every woman to succeed, and by supporting each other, we create more opportunities for all.

The Friend Who Faces Challenges

Listening to this friend is your way of support. True listening is what I call a divine art because it is not on many women’s radars. Listening is also portrayed in your body language. When I am with someone who needs me, I look them in the eye and I squeeze their shoulder. This lets them know I am truly listening and most importantly, I care. It is especially important for your friend to feel heard when she is struggling or in trouble, as knowing someone truly hears her can make a real difference.

I don’t believe this friend needs you to be judgemental. Quite the contrary; she needs you to be sympathetic. After she has told you her woes, respond as a friend should. Be honest when asked to provide feedback all the while being kind. Women should be encouraged to share their feelings and not keep their struggles to themselves.

The Woman Who Is Lonely And Needs A Friend

You would probably be shocked to know how many lonely women you know. They may put on a face, laugh, and seem fine, and yet be inwardly lonely. You have to be a Detective Clouseau to feel her feelings.

What would I do? I would ask her to accomplish something with me; a new skill. I have long wanted to do a vision board. We could do it together! Doing this activity together can create shared experiences and help us form a deeper connection. What better time than at the start of the New Year to put our goals, dreams, and wishes on a vision board or in a planner, where we can also track our progress together? This project will open the door to worthwhile discussions that may form a closeness between the two of us.

You can also phone this lonely woman and ask her to go to a lecture or join your gym class or book club. This woman needs a helping hand and if you enjoy her company, reach out and give her yours! You could also introduce her over lunch to your close friends and acquaintances. This is a marvelous way to support this lonely woman and also to empower and enlighten her, as women from different backgrounds and backgrounds can come together to support each other.

The Friend With A Big Problem

Please reach out to this woman who is overly burdened with a big ‘something’ by being an uplifting and caring problem solver. It is important to be specific on how you can help – do not offer. Stepping up is what counts! You can also advocate for your friend or female colleagues by speaking up for them and supporting their needs when they face challenges. She may have had a big disappointment, be recently widowed or divorced, feel invisible due to her aging, have ill health, have lost a friend to death, or have financial stress—these things can happen unexpectedly and require support.

My theory is women need women. Even though friendships between women are complicated, one of the ways you can succeed is with authentic text messaging. When one of my best friends was dying and could not talk, I texted her almost daily for a year. I never felt burdened. I felt uplifted that I gave back to my friend who gave so much of herself to me. Truth be told, I miss her every day. On the day before her death, she wrote a note to her son to call me and tell me how much she loved me.

You should share your expert advice and verbal support. Help her find her footing with experts. By putting your mind and effort into helping your friend through her difficulties, you show true commitment. If your friend has lost a spouse or is going through a divorce, tell her, “I am here to listen to you.” Let her talk out her woes. Your responsibility is to be a good listener. Compliment her. This will give her the self-assuredness to survive.

Empowering Young Women

Empowering young women is one of the most meaningful ways we can shape a brighter future for all women. As fellow women, it’s our privilege and responsibility to guide, mentor, and support the next generation. By sharing our stories and the lessons we’ve learned, we help young women see what’s possible and encourage them to pursue their dreams with confidence.

Offer words of encouragement when a young woman takes a risk or tries something new. Let her know that it’s okay to stumble, and that every experience—good or bad—helps her grow. Create opportunities for her to learn, lead, and succeed, whether that’s through mentorship, networking, or simply being a sounding board for her ideas. Most importantly, foster an environment where young women feel safe to ask questions, explore their passions, and be their authentic selves.

When we support young women, we are investing in the future of our world. Let’s help them become the leaders, innovators, and change-makers they are meant to be, and remind them that they are never alone on their journey.

Vulnerability Opens A Door To Supporting Other Women

I am an open book. What you see is what you get. I think that is the reason I find it difficult to be happy in the presence of most women. I am not attracted to a woman who is masked; who has an agenda.

These women cannot show their vulnerability.

Being a vulnerable woman is a great attribute and asset in supporting different friends, darling. It sets you apart and makes other women feel comfortable doing the same. Showing vulnerability reminds us that we are all human and imperfect, and that embracing our shared humanity fosters deeper connection. In this way, love, joy, and trust come into play and this provides support to a woman in need of your emotional strength. A woman who is closed and cannot be vulnerable feels less love, joy, and belonging. Open yourselves up, darling! It takes a brave woman to be vulnerable and honest with others. When you open up, make sure you are genuinely expressing your feelings, as authenticity is key to building real trust and support.

Women Will Be Women! Ask Your Friends Open-Ended Questions!

Women’s relationships can be over-the-top problematic and run into roadblocks. The mother and daughter relationship can be daunting, the mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law relationships can be a handful for many, and two mothers-in-law can be an OMG! The friendship between women is often tricky. Competitiveness and jealousy, unfortunately, are fierce. However, talking openly and honestly can help resolve misunderstandings. It is important to focus on understanding and supporting each other rather than competing.

No woman wants to be asked open-ended questions. But the positive of asking open-ended questions can break down barriers. In this way, you are showing your support! When you ask, ‘why,’ ‘what did’ ‘what if’ and ‘how’ – this is the way to get honest results. You now know the problems and can use your tools to honestly support this person. It is also important to accept the answers you receive, even if they differ from your own perspective.

Leading by Example

One of the most powerful ways to support other women is by leading by example. When we embody qualities like confidence, resilience, and kindness, we inspire those around us to do the same. Being a positive role model doesn’t mean being perfect—it means being honest about our struggles, sharing our stories openly, and showing vulnerability when life gets tough.

Empower other women by letting them see your authentic self. Don’t be afraid to admit when you need help or when you’ve made a mistake. This honesty creates a safe space for others to be real, too. Offer guidance and mentorship, but also be willing to learn from the women in your life. Every story shared, every moment of vulnerability, helps build a community where women feel supported and empowered to pursue their own success.

Remember, your actions speak louder than words. By living your truth and supporting other women with sincerity, you set a standard that encourages others to do the same, creating a lasting impact on the lives of those around you.

How To Help Friends Through Grief

It seems grief has been thrown by the wayside. When I lost my husband, I mourned my loss. I stayed by myself, except for my daughter who lived with me. I walked four miles in the morning and four miles at sunset with my pooch, Mahalo. I did not watch TV or read because I could not concentrate. I lived by the Sea in Honolulu and spent my time with my orchid plants on my lanai and watching the koi fish in the pond below.

I thought about my life with Michael morning, noon, and night. I grieved. A year and a day after his death, I moved off the Island with my daughters to Chicago to be near my family. Support from parents and family members can be especially meaningful during times of grief, providing comfort and a sense of stability. My mourning did not end for two years. In those two years I met my Ultimate Concierge, fell in love, and married, but my mourning Michael did not stop. It could not.

The widow also mourns that life goes on and she is left behind, missing not only her partner but what her life once was.

A woman’s grief must be processed in her own time. But, it must be processed or she will never heal.

It is hard for a friend or acquaintance to discuss the death of a partner with her friend because she probably thinks her friend does not want to talk. This is not true! She does want to talk! So encourage her to share her stories. Ask her questions. You are showing her your support. She feels your interest. Tell her, “I am here to listen to you.” That is what my friend Emily said to me at my husband’s funeral. It is the only sentence I recall. He passed away suddenly and my mind was shaken but nevertheless, I remember that important phrase.

Creating a Supportive Community

A supportive community is the foundation upon which women can truly flourish. Building a network of women who uplift and encourage each other transforms lives and creates a sense of belonging that is so often missing in today’s fast-paced world. Whether it’s in person or online, seek out spaces where women can connect, share their stories, and celebrate each other’s successes.

Make it a point to offer words of encouragement and celebrate the accomplishments of the women around you, no matter how big or small. Share resources, opportunities, and advice generously, knowing that when one woman succeeds, it opens doors for others. Create a space—be it a book club, a social media group, or a regular coffee date—where women feel safe, heard, and supported.

When we come together as a supportive community, we remind each other that we are not alone. We create a world where every woman has the space to grow, the confidence to pursue her dreams, and the support she needs to overcome any challenge. Let’s continue to build these communities, one relationship at a time, and watch as the lives of women everywhere are transformed.

Supporting The Different Women In Your Life

I could go on and on and tell one story after another but it is time to close until another day.

Darlings, I leave you with these thoughts:

Supporting different women in times of need is one of the greatest gifts you can give. So, embrace them, listen to them, encourage them, be forthright and vulnerable with them, help them through grief, ask open-ended questions, and address their loneliness and challenges with optimism and sincerity. Whether she’s your friend, colleague, or family member, your support matters deeply. I wonder how each of us can make supporting women a daily practice, not just a gesture for Women’s Day. Remember, it’s not about just one day—supporting women is an ongoing commitment. Stand together with every fellow female in your life and lift each other up. Share your own story in a post or comment to inspire others to do the same. Both women and man can play a role in creating a more supportive and equal world for all.

Amen.

 

Friend, what do you need today? How can we support you? Will you tell us in the comments? This is your place! You belong here!