“Now I know I can leave something that isn’t working for me.” – Arielle, NYC
This quote sums up what many women receive from their WILL journey.
So many women who come to WILL feel beholden, trapped and stuck.
Does that feel familiar?
Every time you have a choice to make, I now believe it is political.
Since the end of Roe v. Wade, I have had conversations with WILL Member‘s and Alumni about choice in a whole new way.
I believe that when we have the power to choose, and when we give away the power…
Or do something that is a “should“, bathed in our shame or fear.
We are upholding patriarchal racist norms, and another woman suffers.
Maybe not directly, and or immediately,
I believe that with each choice we have the power to liberate ourselves and others, or maintain the domination that I don’t even want to look at.
What we pay attention to grows.
I am focusing on where I have agency.
Power, with my purchasing, voting and voice.
I’m going to share even more personally and honestly here and in other places, so stay tuned, if you want more “Elena unbridled”.
But for now I invite you to think about this deeply.
Every time you choose to hold your tongue, or not say the thing that’s on your heart to your friend, sister, parent or spouse, boss, colleague or client,…
Think about…
Does this choice make me feel strong, powerful and alive?
Or meek, small, and hidden?
For now, notice. You don’t have to do anything. Solely, notice.
Notice what it’s costing you to stay in a job that drains your soul, crumbles your mental health, and undermines your presence with your loved ones.
Notice what happens when you tell yourself, “I don’t have a choice.”
I ask you to dig deep here, and ask yourself “Wait a minute? Is that true, or is that my fear talking?”
Because we know who has way less choices.
I invite all to consider that one of the most effective things we can do is to empower ourselves, and take a stand for what we know to be true, good, and in our hearts.
Is it make the BIGGEST, BOLDEST, most POWERFUL choice we can make.
You don’t have to do this alone.
I’m working on this right alongside you.
WILL is a place for you to reclaim responsibility, where you discover how to SEE the options you DO have in front of you with wide open eyes.
To respond more powerfully in your life.
Join with me and other women who are making powerful new choices for how to think, speak an act with clarity, agency and power in this very crazy world.
You’re invited.
In solidarity and a love revolution,
Elena
P. S. I am holding a private “taking a leave of absence” panel discussion that is solely for members and alumni.
If you’ve been considering joining us and are interested in getting more information, and hearing the stories of other women lawyers who have successfully taken leaves of absence, now is the time to book your call. Let me know if you wanna hop on a call this week.