International Women’s Day March 8 2015
Working out the work-life balance
EMERGING FROM THE SHADOWS Women in politics
Around the world, there are far fewer women than men who are actively involved in poli- tics. Among the countries where women predominate, Rwanda is at the top of the list! Indeed, the radical reworking of elec- toral and parliamentary processes remains a primary way to promote sexual equality in leadership roles. It is the case both here and elsewhere that because women still assume most family and household responsibilities, their profes- sional and financial situations are generally weaker. That makes it difficult for women wishing to enter politics to build a reputa- tion and a public image. It is difficult to obtain the support of a political party; dif-
ficult to access networks and the necessary financing to support their work and electoral campaigns; and difficult to win over voters. In many areas of the world, gender prejudice adds to the other obstacles that keep women in the minority in the upper levels of many different sectors, such as post-secondary edu- cation, business, and senior management. However, in Canada, it is encouraging to see that the role played by women is gradually moving them off the back benches. Influential women lead organizations of all types and occupy key political posts, such as provin- cial premier. Women are also parliamentary assistants, advisors, managers, and strategists; hopefully, some of them will dare to make the
When it seems as though there aren’t enough hours in the day, it can be difficult for work- ing mothers to find time to catch their breath and enjoy life. The family is one area where the majority of women rarely compromise. While some find it difficult to be separated from their little ones, others need to be part of the workforce in order to flourish. This is where a work-family conflict can arise. Even though they work as hard as everyone else, some working mothers often have the impression that they’re not able to produce as much as their childless colleagues. Swamped by their workloads, others feel that they are always neglecting their family responsibili- ties. With guilt hovering in the background, wo- men tend to waver between the two worlds, always in search of the right balance. Although a woman might often have the impression of being overwhelmed, all she has to do is look around to realize that this is the reality for thousands of other families. Of course, the grass always seems greener on the other side of the fence, but few moth- ers would truly want to change their lives. Above all, the key to successfully reconci- ling work-family responsibilities lies in organization, good time management skills, and the setting of priorities. Give yourself some leeway in case of unforeseen events. After a hectic week, cut back on housework and organize a family outing
instead. Ask your partner to give you a hand. Suggest to your employer that you could work from home when your children are sick or on vacation. In other words, find your own solutions to reduce the hectic pace of your life. After all, everyone has a right to be happy and successful!
leap to become members of parlia- ment, cabinet ministers, and, one day, prime ministers. Other women combine discretion and visibility with skill. Some first ladies leave their personal stamp on their country’s political his- tory, sometimes going so far as to eclipse the popularity of their famous politician husbands. The face of politics is more femi- nine than it would first appear. So our congratulations should go to those who dare to contribute to our society’s advancement in this way.
Society is an extended family which can only gain from the contribution of women.
Caught between work and family responsibilities? Focus on your priorities.
La Maison du Store
Clinique de denturologie Denture clinic
613 850-5744
100 stores en démonstration Venez voir votre store avant de l’acheter!
613-446-3368 www.fournierdenturistclinic.ca
3433, ch. Gendron, Hammond ON
Youri Brouchkov $GPLQLVWUDWHXUSURSULpWDLUH
Siding and Vinyl, CanExel Soffit and facia Leaf cover Revêtement vinyle et CanExel Soffite et bordure de toit
Rachel Langlois 5HODWLRQVSXEOLTXHV
UXH/DXULHU 5RFNODQG21..7
Bonne journée à toutes les femmes!
Centre de retraite
4ÏL POSTE s 4ÏLÏC
of fice@maizeinc.ca 613 488-3419 • 1 888 453 2553
BAR | ENTERTAINMENT | DIVERTISSEMENT | RECEPTION
Club Powers
SNACK BAR SPÉCIAUX À TOUS LES JOURS DU LUNDI AU VENDREDI
T 613.446.5631 • 954, rue Giroux, C.P. 648, Rockland ON www.clubpowers.ca | info@clubpowers.ca
Made with FlippingBook - Online Brochure Maker