10 Ways To Be YOUR Best While Supporting Another Woman!

Supporting another woman? Are you kidding? I can't support someone who could take my job, steal my thunder, or finish my story behind my back?

This is the message we hear especially in the work place. We live in a time where women are desperate for each other's wisdom and guidance. And yet, there's hesitation. Unfortunately, stats show bullying among women is on the rise.

We have a responsibility toward other women to support them in living their finest. It doesn't matter if we are mothers, coworkers, leaders or friends. What matters is that we help other women live as close to their unique potential as possible.

In everything you say or do, you're influencing women you care about. Be considerate. Be intentional. Here are ten ways women can help other women realize the best that's within them.

1. Believe in Her

Her confidence may be shaken. Faith in her talents or skills may be weak. At a time like this, it is priceless having someone believe in you. Let it be you. There are numerous success stories of women who accomplished great things because someone believed in them.

2. Cheer Her On

"You can do it." "I know you can." These are words that are all-too-infrequently voiced. Sincere encouragement goes a long way in helping her stay focused. Being specific means better results. "I remember when you proposed your idea last year and ended up getting a raise. I bet you'll do even better this time."

3. Expect Beyond

Too many times women are told, "Don't expect too much." Or "Don't get your hopes up." "Be realistic." That's just another way of saying, "Don't expect more than what I think is enough for you." However, women need to up-grade their expectations of each other. You will find she can rise to the challenge surprising everyone.

4. Tell the Truth

Compassion and intentions are important in truth-telling. Women avoid truth when it could cause pain. We are supposed to 'play nice,' remember? Being truthful is a loving act. Being the only person who has the courage to say what needs to be said is a thankless job, at the moment, but is rewarding in the long run.

5. Be a Role Model

Powerful women influence by their actions. Who we are speaks much more loudly than what we say. Other women are watching you. They are. And they're recording everything about you consciously and unconsciously. We automatically emulate our role models. We're ALL role models to someone so let's be good ones.

6. Share Yourself

Share what you have learned from your mistakes. Talk about what lead to you mistakes; doubts, needing permission, fear of risk. Too often, the value of sharing our failings is missed. It's okay to show your humanity or womanity. This adds to your relatability.

7. Challenge Her

Challenge with the intention of propelling her beyond what she believes is possible. Forget about the negative connotations of the word challenge. Make it a test of her abilities to thrive in the face of uncertainty.

8. Ask Smart Question

Don't tell her what to do. Ask questions that make her think, cause her to consider alternatives, or help her see her mistakes. This is how she will understand herself better, what the issue is and what her choices are. Smart questions lead to smart solutions.

9. Acknowledge Her

Look for the best in her. Catch her doing something good or right for her. Recognize how her taking care of her is the first step in everything. When you acknowledge her first she will move forward in confidence. Tip: This is especially cool to do in front of others.

10. Spend Time with Her

By devoting your most precious resource of time you're showing her that you value her and your relationship. Making a time investment is the highest form of encouragement.

Here's the truth. You can do each of these ten things for yourself. Yes! If you can help another woman at being her best you can help yourself at being your best. Take each of these top ten ways and answer, "how does this apply to me?" You may be surprised at how easy and enlightening this will be.