Prompts are Out and Essays are Flowing.

Following up on my post about the TED Talk and who is taught to be brave, after a conversation with a friend, I decided that I was going to reach out to some of the women in my life whom I respect and who I feel could have some great things to say. I asked them to write something, record something, or just basically speak on topics or experiences that they feel would be impactful to the younger women coming up behind us.

The first prompt—the one that really got the juices flowing—was along the lines of: “If you could have a conversation with your younger self, what would you say? What advice would you give her?”

I made a list of about 10 prompts, sent them to people, and asked them to pick the one that resonated with them most.

Over the next few weeks, and possibly the next month or two, we’ll see what people share. I’ll do my best to share their contributions in as many ways as possible so that as many people as possible can find the piece, story, or perspective that resonates with them most.

As we explore women’s and girls’ health and well-being overall, I think it would be great to hear the perspectives of the people around us and to include ideas and thoughts from people outside of myself.

My goal is to keep the conversation as raw and honest as possible and not filter too much. I think there is value in allowing people to express themselves as they see fit.

For you, the audience, I would encourage you to use your own discernment. Take what resonates and leave the rest.

This is an exploratory research endeavor, and I’m creating the rules of engagement as we go.