30 years ago, it was difficult to spot or hear of a business woman in many countries. They were relegated to the menials of household and had no say in affairs of trade, economic or anything that came with the tag of ‘Thinking’ with it. Humanity has shunned these practices of bias and is now in a phase which recognizes women as equals (though not without some heart burn). Constituting 80% of the consumer market, they simply can’t be left out.

Adaptation is the reason why Women have been able to establish themselves. They have learnt to master techniques faster, make elaborate plans to achieve a target and work tirelessly towards the end. Since women had to break barriers both psychological and social, it was no joke.

Despite all the changes that were needed to establish themselves, family is still a priority for many women. And the key to be successful at everything is balance. Understanding the amount of time and effort required to achieve can help set realistic goals. This would not put undue pressure and hence no unwarranted guilt. Women have learnt the tenets of time management and are undoubtedly better at it, thanks to their multiple roles in life.

There can be no barriers in the business women’s path anymore. She can go about establishing her business and also obtain sound backing from many institutions. Most small businesses are run by women and are huge contributors to the economy of every country.

The recession is another nail on the coffin of the male supremacist (most bankers were men). From being good negotiators to vital deal clinchers, women actually have a huge male following. Though their working practices are criticized by men, men often tend to follow them if it proves to be successful, a contradiction.

The strides made are big. Gender bias is unproductive and leads to loss of talent. Gender wouldn’t really matter as long as the best results are obtained from an individual. The world has taken notice of the strength of women and in a short while they will be undisputed equals. And when they are one up it remains to be seen if there’d be payback time.

Vicki Irvin has a passion for helping women entrepreneurs and business owners to succeed in business and attain the levels of success that they truly deserve. It has been her experience that women have a better chance of succeeding professionally if women work life balance can be achieved through effective time management and through proper self-care physically and emotionally.