Each March, American's observe Women's History Month – commemorating and encouraging the study, recognition, and celebration of the vital role of women in American history. We celebrate each March to remind ourselves of every major milestone and accomplishment that women have achieved in society and in culture. It's important to commemorate the trailblazers, the women that forged new paths, the people who created more seats at the table.

And while it's wonderful to acknowledge the achievement of women in March, we know we can do better. At The Confidence Co, we encourage everyone to celebrate, honor, and cherish women all year long. Here are 10 ways to help you get started. 

How to Celebrate Women's Achievements All Year Long

1. Mentor young women and girls

We all have something to offer young women and girls. Mentoring provides an opportunity for you to share your learned experiences and knowledge in career and in life. A good mentor can help shape the future of the mentees' life - being a sounding board for issues, being a close confidant that they can trust, and being source of inspiration. If you're interested in becoming a mentor, check out the Young Women Empowered organization here. 

2. Buy jewelry and clothing from female designers 

There are plenty of female jewelry and clothing designers that seek to make every one feel confident, beautiful, and comfortable. Take note of who designs your wares and accessories. And check out the 10 most influential female fashion designers here. 

3. Create a seat at the table 

In order for more women to find success professionally and personally, they need to be able to see themselves in powerful positions. According to author Roxanne Gay, having a seat at the table means, "you are part of a conversation and that you have as much to say as anyone else around the table." Notice the different "tables" in your life that have an open seat for a women and take a chance on her. 

4. Get to know the women that serve in your local politics

The importance of local politics can be over looked, but local government is important because municipal governments impact you and your family more frequently and more positively than either state or federal governmental bodies. Fortunately more and more women are entering politics as the US gets closer to gender parity across political bodies. You can start by finding your local congressional representatives on the House of Representatives website here.

5. Volunteer at a shelter for female victims of domestic violence

All people deserve to have relationships that are safe, healthy, and free of physically and emotional violence. Help others heal and find support by volunteering a shelter for domestic violence victims. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is a great place to start if you would like to get involved.

6. If you employ a woman, give her a raise or equal pay (at least)

Unfortunately the gender wage gap still exists in the United States. In 2020, women earned 84% of what men earned, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of median hourly earnings of both full- and part-time workers. Based on this estimate, it would take an extra 42 days of work for women to earn what men did in 2020. So if you employ a woman, look into how you can close the gap. 

7. Get to know female artists throughout history

There are numerous of female artists that have shaped and changed the world as we know it. The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) is the first museum in the world solely dedicated to championing women through the arts. You can plan your visit here. And read this article that sites the 20 most influential female artists that you should know.

8. Read books and articles by female authors and journalists

More stories by women need to be heard. To celebrate female authors, start a monthly book club that features stories written by women. Here are the best selling fiction novels by female writers from Penguin Random House. And learn about the works of the most outstanding female journalists across the last 100 years. 

9. Eat at female-owned and operated restaurants

At The Confidence Co, one of our most favorite ways to celebrate is by eating delicious food! Next time you're craving something tasty, opt for a female-owned restaurant, bakery, or grocer. You can simply search for "female owned" on Yelp to find a restaurant near you. And remember to pack your Confidence whenever you eat. 

10. Tell a woman "thank you"

We all have an incredible woman in our lives that has been there for us, taught us something, or has provided inspiration. Whether she's a teacher, your mother, a boss, or a mentor, call her up or write a good old fashioned letter to say "thank you." It's a kind and simple gesture that will have a long-lasting impact.