International Women’s Day 2019 – #BalanceforBetter
The concept of ‘balance’ is core to achieving gender equality. We acknowledge that right now in our society there is an imbalance. But how do we change this? What can we do to achieve the goal of a more balanced, fair and equitable role for all women in society – in business and in our communities?
Perhaps understanding the principles of balance in design, and applying these same principles to our lives, could provide us with a guide to how we can progress toward achieving Balance for Better.
A balanced composition feels right. It feels stable and aesthetically pleasing. While some of its elements might be focal points and attract your eye, no one area of the composition draws your eye so much that you can’t see the other areas.1
We need to recognise each other for our unique capabilities. We can provide a safe, open and inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and accepted for who they are. We can also provide support and direction when held is needed. And we must reward individuals equally on merit.
Balancing a composition involves arranging both positive elements and negative space in such a way that no one area of the design overpowers other areas.1
Let’s recognise and celebrate our differences. Let’s relish in our uniqueness. Let’s understand that personalty is an individual characteristic that’s not gender-related. Let’s appreciate not only our difference in gender – but the differences that come with age, culture and experience.
Everything works together and fits together in a seamless whole. The individual parts contribute to their sum but don’t try to become the sum.1
When we collaborate and share ideas, the result is so much richer! Being equal should not be interpreted as ‘being the same’. Let’s embrace our differences and relish in the possibilities of coming together to be a better humanity. [Now join hands and let’s sing “Kumbaya!”]
It’s a huge topic and a massive task to change attitudes that have been entrenched in our society for many generations. We are a small studio of five individuals. But we still can have an effect…
- We can be aware, we can share our ideas and opinions openly.
- We can provide a safe, open and inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and accepted for who they are.
- We can celebrate creativity and innovation and praise a job well done!
- We can conduct ourselves in both business and our personal lives in a fair and equitable manner.
- AND we can make positive changes that take us closer toward achieving a balance for better.
All of this is possible – regardless of gender.
Because everything is better with a sprinkle of salt!
SALT.Shaker
Reference 1. Smashing Magazine