“What makes you different?” This is was the first question someone asked me as a newly launched LLC trying to make it as a grant writer. I had my business plan, my nice suit, and my elevator pitch, but I was still figuring out who I was. Each year I learned something new, something to add to my elevator pitch, and something I could believe about myself and my value as a business owner.

The entrepreneur life is not for the weak. I dealt with more setbacks and challenges than I anticipated. Over time, I came to realize that each setback was a gift as these became teachable moments, and I became stronger having overcome them. Resourcefulness is the mantra for any business owner, especially during the time of COVID-19. However, the odds can be stacked against women. I recently heard that only 4% of businesses that have over $1M in revenue are owned by women.

No matter how much you struggle, no matter if your dreams seem a bit far away, just know that showing up and putting yourself out there is a tremendous asset not to be taken for granted. If you continue to add value to your clients, your team, and/or your community, then you should have a seat at the table. We have a lot to celebrate today on International Women’s Day. Let’s keep showing the young girls and new female business owners out there what they can accomplish! #women #equality #mentalhealth #InternationalWomensDay

A special shout out to some of my other female business owner peers: Diane Leonard, Lucy Morgan, Micki Vandeloo, Julie Boll, Ann Quinn, Annie Karp, Susan Kim, Andrea Dunathan just to name a few.

Rachel Werner, MPA, GPC, PMP, Owner & CEO of RBW Strategy