Why we should be encouraging young girls to become footy fans.

I recently read the article by Kasey Edwards on why she didn't want her daughter to be a footy fan.  Ms Edwards provided well thought out reasons on her views, and addressed the likely thoughts of those who would disagree with her position.

Essentially, she concluded that why would she want to put her daughter in a position where she was likely to be a minority, to face sexism and discrimination.  Valid point, but overall I disagree.  I agree that the change in attitude to women in sport, particularly in football will not change through one trailblazer (e.g. Sam Mostyn or Rebecca Madden), but we need to have a consistent and collaborative approach in order to facilitate change and let society know, 'hey it's ok that females are involved in footy!'.

I have a consistent message in all of my speeches on gender equality - change will come through Generation Y males purely based on the fact that they have not been exposed to an upbringing which would result in them having a high level of inherited subconscious bias (against women).  Male gen y's were the first generation where mothers worked full-time and fathers were primary care givers; they are used to having women in what was a traditionally male role.  The ripple effect will continue so much so that future generations will have even less of an inherited bias - well that is my hope.

By encouraging our children to challenge gender specific barriers, we will facilitate a change for the future.  While I fully respect the decision that Ms Edwards has made, I hope in years to come she will not have to be concerned about her daughter's welfare and the impact exposing her to football could have on her confidence, self-esteem and outlook on life.

To do this, we, as leaders of our generation, need to call out the sexist or discriminatory behaviour and celebrate women in sport, whether they be a player, spectator, coach, umpire or commentator.  To stay silent is to accept the conduct.

I don't have children, but I played hockey since I was 4, softball since I was 8, touch football since I was 9, and then in high school went into rowing, volleyball, soccer and continued with athletics and other school sports.  I maintain a high level of sport as I embark on my 30s and last year I started boxing.  As kids we played tackled red rover with the boys, challenged them in 'Force Back' and held our own in the kicking game.  We were never told we couldn't or shouldn't do that.  We were encouraged to participate, and I will adopt the same position for my children.  Parents would never tell their sons not to watch dancing, or participate in ballet because he may be laughed at, or be ostracised based on gender.  He would be encouraged to stand tall, put it past him and do what makes him feel happy.  The same should be for our daughters and football!

I hope that change for women in sport comes sooner rather than later.  As Ms Edwards highlighted, it is estimated that 40% of club members are women.  If the Australian sporting industry (in this I include clubs, players, sponsors, spectators, umpires and commentators) does not recognise the significant role women play in sport, it will be to the detriment of Australian sport, which is without a doubt a significant part, if not the largest part, of Australia's culture and identity.

I coach at, play for, and am a Non-Executive Committee Member at Toowong FC.  I am proud of the commitment they have made to girls and women in sport with their programs.  I call on all those involved to work towards making it more acceptable for women to have a role in Australian sport (especially football), even if it by way of watching and supporting your team, so that mothers like Ms Edwards don't have to be concerned with the impact it could have on their daughters.

Toowong Tomcats 2015 team. 

Women in Law Event hosted by QUT Law Society

Last night I gave an address at the QUT Law Society Women in Law event in my capacity as Vice-President of WLAQ.  It was held at Old Government House and over 50 students attended.

The QUT Law Society did a fantastic job as hosts and the event was inspiring.  The Chief Justice gave an address and spoke of the significant milestones that women lawyers have made in Queensland's history.

Following this, I gave the address below and spent some time with my fellow MinterEllison colleagues talking to the students about transitioning from student to lawyer.

Congratulations to QUT Law Society on hosting such a wonderful event.

 

I would like to acknowledge the efforts of the QUT Law Society in hosting tonight's event, along with our Chief Justice who has provided another inspirational speech, which I am sure you will all reflect on in years to come.

I am here tonight in my capacity as one of the Vice-President's of the Women Lawyers Association of Queensland, and to provide you with background knowledge about our organisation and our plans for you and the future for women in Queensland's legal profession. 

WLAQ was founded in 1978 by Leneen Forde AC and ten female lawyers including current President of the Land Court, Carmel MacDonald, Una Prentice, The Honourable Justice Margaret McMurdo President of the Court of Appeal and Noela L'Estrange former CEO of Queensland Law Society.

Past Presidents include Deputy Chief Magistrate Leanne O'Shea, Judge Sally Purdon-Sully, Magistrate Kay Ryan and Justice Jenny Hogan.  Her Honour, Justice Mullins served as Treasurer for 7 years.

We are an organisation created by the leading women lawyers in Queensland, and  continued to be run by women who are as equally as passionate about ensuring that the interests of women in the legal profession are protected.  It is at this time that I would like to express my thanks and gratitude to the Chief Justice for her address delivered at the 100th anniversary of the admission of Agnes McWhinney. 

The address contained a comprehensive overview of the history of women in Queensland's legal profession, commencing with Agnes' admission on 7 December 1915, and progressing to what the Chief Justice described as a particularly important first which occurred in 2015, one that was a very significant milestone for women, and a position she had doubted a woman would ever hold.  This milestone was the appointment of Sue Brown QC as the first female Vice-President of the Bar Association of Queensland.  This being WLAQ's first opportunity to publically acknowledge the Chief Justice following this address, on behalf of WLAQ I would like to acknowledge another significant milestone of 2015, that being the Chief Justice's appointment as Queensland's first woman Chief Justice.  I know I speak on behalf of all present tonight when I say thank you, not only for your contribution to women in the profession, but to the profession as a whole.

I would also like to echo your comments, that we can dare to dream of a woman President of the Bar Association, with the Law Society having achieved this milestone some 30 years prior with the election of Elizabeth Nosworthy. 

Some would ask, why in 2016 do we need an organisation such as WLAQ?  I do not propose to recite statistics, but want to emphasis the significant disparity between the ratio of female to male law graduates to the ratio of female to male QCs, Special Counsel and Partners.  The profession is loosing key women lawyers post 5 to 8 years admission, and adjustments to what used to be considered general practice for a lawyer, must be made.

At our last AGM we had 434 members, of which 147 were students.  WLAQ recognises the importance of ensuring our student membership is well represented and maintains an open relationship with all of the Universities so that we can work collaboratively in addressing issues that you face as you transition from student to lawyer.

Last year we released our 2015-2018 Strategic Plan, a first for WLAQ and an initiative I am proud to be apart of.  In this, we made a firm commitment to provide networking, educational and mentoring opportunities for our members.  I am pleased to report that we have made progress with this objective and our 2015/2016 Mentoring Program saw a significant increase in the number of mentee applications, that is applications by female law students requesting mentorship.  As students, this is where you will see the most benefits of being a member of WLAQ.

It is important that as you progress in your career you remain open to discussing your ideas and issues with those more senior than you.  It is through these conversations that we can recognise any systemic issues that may be presenting as barriers to your progression and assist you in finding solutions.  I acknowledge the reports of the unbalanced proportion of available positions to the number of law graduates.  However, when we look at your career progression, it is important that impediments to you staying in the legal profession are known so that, when we look at the other end of the spectrum, that is your movement into leadership positions, WLAQ as an organisation, can continue to do what it can to facilitate disruption and work towards equality.  It is now that I call upon the male law students in the room to commit to being a champion of change and look up to role models such as Dominic McGann.

Moving forward, I would encourage you to support each other as you graduate, when you are admitted, and as you progress through the ranks in your career.  It is important that we work together and have a support network amongst our peers.  WLAQ events are frequently attended by past Presidents and the executive, who often retell stories of their recent catch ups.   It is now that you will create friendships that are the foundation of your career relationships.

With that, I would like to extend an invitation to you all to attend the Una Prentice Awards, which are being held on 19 April 2016 at the College of Law.  The Awards celebrate the top female law student of each University, made possible thanks to the generous bequest of Una Prentice, the first female law graduate.

Thank you again to Harriette and the QUT Law Society for asking WLAQ to attend tonight and I wish you all the best with your career.

Gender equality improves in legal fraternity

I have always maintained that any improvement to gender parity and inequality issues will come through men taking the lead and becoming a role model to our younger generation.

It was great to talk to Brisbane Legal about the WLAQ Inter-Professional Evening and give my views on gender equality in the legal profession.

The full article can be found here.

Thank you again to the women I work with at MinterEllison for supporting me in organsing the event and coming along.

Andre Cois Photography

 

WLAQ Inter-Professional Evening 2016

It was absolutely amazing to host the 2016 WLAQ Inter-Professional evening last night.  This year, we invited Dr Kirstin Ferguson as our guest speaker.

Below is a recap of my introduction for Kirstin given in my capacity as Vice-President.

Andre Cois Photography 

Following on from Amelia's welcome, thank you all for attending tonight.

When I was looking for some inspiration on what I wanted my message to be for tonight's introduction, I came across an article in Women's Agenda today confirming that a portion of the cost of our work handbag may be tax deductible.  I completely digressed from the task and found myself on the Burberry website contemplating a rather expensive purchase.

I didn't go through with the purchase because my attention was diverted, correctly, back to the issue at hand.  Why are we, in 2016 still having to contemplate different arrangements for men and women.  There has never been any questions or debate raised over a men's ability to claim for his briefcase.  This is an issue I struggle with.  The ideas of feminism, along with the negative connotations post 1903 era of Emily Plunkett's radical feminism seem to have progressed, but our action in actually effecting change and achieving parity has not.

So much so it was reported this week in the PwC Women in Work Index that Australia has dropped from 17th to 20th (out of 33) in terms of female economic empowerment.  Of note, New Zealand is 4th and UK jumped from 21 to 16.  It is not that Australia is no longer taking action, it's just that the rest of the world is taking even moreaction.

This time last year, we were hosting our first Inter-Professional event with the newly appointed Minister for Women, Shannon Fentiman.  I spoke about how women no longer accepted "good enough", and with the taste of success, it was incumbent upon us all to selflessly work together, because we must continue to build on the success of the dedicated women before us.

I am pleased to say that progress for women in the legal profession in Queensland, particularly at the Bar, has not regressed, with the latest Supreme Court Annual Report confirming an increase in appearances by women in the Court of Appeal, criminal matters and civil matters. 

While my next comment may be interpreted as biased, I have no hesitation in stating that WLAQ continues to achieve success in advocating for women in the legal profession under the leadership of our current President.

It is through our deliberate action that we host tonight's event and allow our members an opportunity to network with other mid to senior professional businesswomen in Brisbane, to discuss the issues facing our everyday work life, enjoy a well earned wine, and to hear from a now former member of the legal profession, who, if I may be so bold to say, is absolutely killing it in the Boardroom.

Kirstin Ferguson is a lady who has a seat at the table and her career alone is an example of action that can be taken to achieve parity.  I first came across Kirstin through Twitter as we were both tweeting about union. 

I had an online stalk, and when reading through her resume, my immediate reaction was I need to meet this woman.  Currently on the Board for the ABC, the Queensland Theatre Company, previously Chairwoman of Thiess, and the first female director of Reds Rugby Union.  I wanted in on her inner circle, or in line with the latest buzz word – her squad!

With a PhD to go along side her degrees in Law and Arts (both of which she obtained with Honours), it is no surprise that Kirstin was named in the Australian Financial Review's 100 Women of Influence in 2014.

I am very much looking forward to hearing from Kirstin, and ask that you please make her welcome.

WLAQ hosts The Honourable Shannon Fentiman MP

Since being appointed Secretary of Women Lawyers Association of Queensland in July 2014, I have been fortunate enough to attend and host a number of events.  The most recent event was the inaugural WLAQ Inter-Professional Networking Evening, where we hosted over 110 WLAQ members and their guests.

I was working with a fabulous sub-committee of Tamlyn Mills and Bridget Handley and the support we received from a number of Queensland businesses was amazing.  My good girlfriend Laura Chong, of The 400co dressed us all in the Mater Chicks in Pink dress, The Collection by M provided personalised chocolates and we all drank Ballandean Estate wine while eating food catered by Sage Catering.  And the venue, Wesley House kindly organised by The College of Law Queensland.  Pictures from the night can be found on the WLAQ Facebook Page.

Andre Cois Photography

The theme of our night was "make it happen", which was the 2015 International Women's Day theme.

The highlight of my night was being able to speak in front of my peers and close friends and to introduce our keynote speaker, The Honourable Shannon Fentiman MP.  A copy of my speech for the night is below.

I stand by what I say.  Collaboration is what it will take to address issues of gender diversity in the legal profession.

Let's make it happen.

Introduction by Cassandra Heilbronn for Minister Fentiman MP

Good Evening.

Internationally, March is dedicated to the celebration of events relating to women in history and contemporary society.  As Tamlyn highlighted, 2015 is the year of making it happen and where effective action for advancing and recognising women is encouraged.

Gone are the days where women focussed celebrations were held for political favour.  In its place, recognition of issues professional and corporate women face as they work towards challenging the status quo by not adhering to traditional, and well worn, rules and expectations of women in the workplace. 

Women no long simply accept "good enough".  We have tasted success, and with ambition we build and capitalise on the foundations laid by our predecessors.  Through our recently endorsed Strategic Plan, WLAQ has committed to providing an avenue, and to be a catalyst, for change for women in the legal profession.  Tonight, we are doing just that as we are joined by our peers from other professions as we enjoy a glass of wine and share stories.  Collaboration.   That is how we will achieve equality and diversity in the legal profession.

We have an advantage over our founding members.  Men are alive to the issues impeding the progression of women and accept that change is required.  I personally believe this change will come through the next generation of leaders, through my generation.  My male peers accept me as an equal, they frankly admit to having professional role models such as The Honourable Justice McMurdo AC and are familiar with females taking on the historically traditional role of provider, or "breadwinner".  Subconscious bias has not been inherited. 

It is incumbent upon us all to selflessly work together, because we must continue to build on the success of the dedicated women before us and make it happen.

In recognition of a woman who recently made it happen, we have invited The Honourable Shannon Fentiman MP, Minister for Communities, Women and Youth, Child Safety and Multicultural Affairs to be our keynote speaker for this evening and share her thoughts on "making it happen" for professional and corporate women.

Minister Fentiman holds a Bachelor of Laws (First Class Honours) from QUT and recently completed her Master of Laws at Melbourne University.  She was admitted as a legal practitioner in 2007.

Prior to her election to the Queensland Parliament as the member for Waterford, she worked as a solicitor at Hall Payne Lawyers and has considerable experience in employment law, having previously worked as an industrial advocate for the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union.  She also worked as a Judge's Associate in the Supreme Court of Queensland to her Honour Justice Atkinson.

We thank Minister Fentiman for making time to attend during the Parliamentary dinner break and speak to us tonight.

Please welcome, Minister Fentiman.

2014 - My year in review

I cannot believe that 2014 is almost at an end.  I write this post - my year in review - with trepidation.  To say 2014 was a roller-coaster would be an understatement.  I had one of the best years professionally, but encountered a few personal lows.  

I spent weeks freaking out about turning 30, but have since found it wasn't that bad (separate blog to follow!).  I had a few significant changes in my friendship group and have made some amazing new friends who I am so glad to have in my life.  A health scare made me realise there is more to life than just dancing all night long on a Saturday night and while I am fit, there needs to be a balance.

Overall, I would say that 2014 was an exciting, yet different year.  I can only hope to build on everything for a bigger and better 2015!

Here is my year in review (some of these questions have been taken from a previous Huffington Post blog).

What was the best thing that happened to me this year?

A few things, the most significant would be taking on my new job at a firm I really wanted to be at, in an area of law that I am passionate about.  A few other significant moments were:

• Participating in the Australian Institute of Management's International Women's Day Debate and all of the coverage that followed.
• Being named in the Who's Who of Australian Women 2015 List.
• Speaking at the Australian Women Lawyers Conference in Adelaide.
• Being voted in as Secretary of Women Lawyers Association of Queensland.
• Having the most supportive group of friends, who I was able to call at any time of the day or night to workshop ideas, or just have a good old fashioned cry and girlie heart to heart.
• Helping my friends expand into the social networking scene with blogs, LinkedIn profiles and Twitter accounts.

What did I do this year that I am really proud of?

Without a doubt, it would be the Debate.  This was a turning point in my year and the response has truly been overwhelming.  I found out a day or two before the Debate that there was something wrong with my liver (a suspected tumour) and I had just been referred to a specialist as it was suspected malignant.  The Debate was a perfect distraction from my health problems and also from  my breakup with my boyfriend that had happened over the same time.  I confided in my team members (Sara and Sharon) about my health problems and they were so supportive.

I received a text on the morning of the Debate that simply said "own the debate today".  It was great motivation and I could not have asked for a better day.  I got to stand alongside five other inspiring women as we were making our mark on such an important day for women around the world.  I am well and truly proud of the difference we were able to make. 

Who do I need to thank and acknowledge for having been there for me?

There is always a risk in answering a question of this nature that you will leave someone out.  Without a doubt the top two people would be one of my BFF's Jessica Turner and my awesome guy mate Blewie.  Jess was there for all of the moral support during my breakup, and Blewie was just amazing with all of my health problems and giving me a guy's perspective for everything (interpret tough love). 

Who else?  Dr Lois Frankel - I am so glad to have her as a mentor, her constant support and "checking in", really motivated me.  One of my other good girl friends Molly, and Cohen my guy BFF who I love to hate, have both played an important part, along with Bec, Liz, Laura, Nicole and Jelena, all girlfriends which I built a new, or strengthened a current, friendship with.  My boys were always there for me too, somehow all of them called me just when I needed it (still love the Dance Track Friday videos Mannion).

I am SO grateful for having such a great group of friends who all have unique qualities that make them the people that I love.

What is a lesson I learned?

People need to create their own life and happiness.  You cannot run your life to expectations of others as this will only create disappointment for you later in life. 

Another lesson I learned is that sometimes friends just grow apart.  I have a few draft blogs on this topic, which I just have not been able to finalise.  Dr Peggy Drexler has written extensively on the issue and I agree with a lot of her sentiments.  It is not that you no longer love and care for a friend, it is just that you grow apart, form different friendships, have different values and see the world through different light.  I still love and care for the friends that I grew apart from, I am grateful there was no "bust up" which resulted in hatred, but sometimes, even after 15 years, a friendship can run its course.  I know I went through a few life changes the past few years which contributed to me changing my whole outlook on life.  All I can do is wish those people all the best as they take on the world and achieve their goals.  Peas and Carrots.

Who did I really help?

This is hard to answer without asking others.  However, one person I know I did make a difference with is the young high school girl, CW, I mentioned in a previous blog.  She wrote to me after seeing the QB Monthly article, and we have since formed an amazing friendship.  I am so glad to have made a positive impact on her life and it is really humbling to be referred to as a role model by her.

What's something I got through that was really tough?

My health scare.  That week long wait before I had my blood tests and MRI to see whether or not the suspected tumour in my liver was malignant was the scariest week of my life.  I signed my contract for my new role in that week and resigned my then current position, which just added to the rollar-coaster of emotions.  I am thankful for all of the supportive people I had at work, who helped me through that time.

While it was confirmed that there is a 7cm tumour in my liver, I am so thankful that it is not malignant.  Just thinking about that week now is making my head spin.  I will always be grateful for Jess' call the moment I got out of the specialist appointment with the good news (no cancer!).  Best cab ride call of my life!

What character trait did I develop most this year?

This question made me realise I missed someone off my list from above (didn't I say I would forget someone!).  That person being Janine Garner, owner of LBD Group.  Each year Janine encourages members to choose their word for the year.  For me, 2014 was resilience.

It is quite ironic as I chose that word before the breakup, before finding out about my tumour and before I decided to change firms.  When reflecting on 2014, I believe I was successful in building resilience within myself.

What's next?

I am not someone who makes resolutions.  Instead I make a list of goals that I wanted to achieve, or things I want to do.  I hate the idea of an arbitrary day being required in order to make a difference in my life.  In 2014, I decided to practice what I preached and check in on myself every quarter to make sure I was achieving my goals.  I also had other little goals, such as going to a Ballet with my friend Emma (we went and saw the Nutcracker last weekend thanks to an incredible Special Counsel in my practice group at work), buying my first brand new car (which I did about a week ago and pick up on the 30th!) and joining a Committee.  Other goals had to be changed as I dealt with unsuspected situations, such as removing from my list learning Serbian.

I have not decided what goals I want for 2015.  That is on my to-do list (hmm a to-do list to do a to-do list).  Two things I have decided on - 1. I want to go overseas and am planning on tackling Yacht Week in Croatia with Laura and 2. that my word for 2015 is patience. 

Thank you to everyone who played a part in my 2014.  I only hope that 2015 is even bigger and better for all of us!  Remember to look forward to what it ahead. 

Who is she? She is, Sarah Jane

Most of Australia's female population with an interest in fashion and lifestyle would have heard of Sarah-Jane Young (and have her Instagram on refresh).  Every post online attributed to the SISJ brand is well thought out, consistent, fresh and stylish.  Sarah Jane’s online presence appears effortless and is I was fortunate enough to have her to agree to an interview so I could delve deeper into her world, one that has inspired me, and find out why she is Sarah Jane.

When looking at Sarah Jane’s website you would be forgiven for thinking that she is Superwoman.  A Magazine Editor (she is Fashion & Beauty Editor for Latte Magazine), who runs her own website with an amazing team of contributing editors and (to me) a lifestyle many would be envious of.  I love that Sarah Jane is not one of those girls who found instant success through Instagram and shameless product promotion.  With a background in advertising and marketing, who has worked in publishing and e-commerce for a fashion label prior to landing a role as a marketing and PR manager for a hair and beauty company, Sarah Jane is a walking marketing role model, who is far from reaching her peak.

One thing that also struck me about Sarah Jane is her integrity.  When I asked her what she is most proud of, her response was her WOMEN WHO INSPIRE series.  I just shake in my head in absolute awe and delight.  Sarah Jane is an ambassador for Dr LeWinn and just returned from an overseas trip to Europe with Peugeot, she is managed by The Ministry of Talent (owned by the PR Queen herself, Roxy Jacenko) and she is most proud of being able to showcase the talents of other women in order to inspire females worldwide.  What a woman! 

However, after you finish reading below and seeing Sarah Jane’s latest news, I think that her real legacy will be revealed in about four months’ time (yes, I am squealing with delight at her news).

Did you ever think that your (then) blog would lead you to where you are today?

Absolutely not! I never intended for my blog to go anywhere further than a hobby. I started my blog a few years ago as an escape from my then mundane job! It was a creative escape for me and I loved that I was the boss.

Things really started to skyrocket after my internship at Grazia magazine in London. This also gave me the confidence to believe in my writing and my vision and I pushed on with the blog. It was literally like I woke up one day and I was ‘kind of a big deal’! Of course signing with the whirlwind that is Roxy Jacenko at The Ministry of Talent has also been amazing for exposure and job opportunities. I am eternally grateful to Rox for believing in SISJ.

What is a start to finish day look like for you?

Ha! You don’t want to know – it sometimes involves PJs and crazy bed hair all day! I don’t really have an ‘average day’, due to the nature of my jobs. I am always juggling a thousand different things – upcoming blog posts and collaborations, photo shoots, my social media/online plan, admin, my finances, networking, styling for shoots… the list goes on!

I do feel sometimes my mind and desk are mayhem, however, it somehow works as a big organised mess! It’s all about having a strict schedule/routine and working when you are at your best. I work very well in the morning and like to start my day with PT or exercise, followed by admin and emails until lunchtime. I will always break for something to eat or run some errands. I love playing with my two furry babies (Mika and Arbie) and then I get back to the desk for my afternoon sprint. By about 4:00pm my brain and eyes hurt and I chill out for a while – usually a true crimes or Real Housewives episode!

I will cook for myself and the hubby most nights and then we hit the gym (if we are being good!). A little bit more TV and I get back to my desk until about midnight. I am a serious night owl! I get some of my best work done late at night. This is when I do most of my writing, it just seems to flow easier than during the day.

 

I often find that many career girls associate the term “work/life balance” with working mums.  Do you think it is just as important for single professionals, or working women with no kids to embrace the work/life balance philosophy?
Funny you should mention this… I am not totally kid-free! I am actually 5 months pregnant, but it’s still a big secret! (Can you see why I squealed with delight?  How exciting and congratulations).  However, she’s not arrived yet obviously, so I can only comment on my current work/life balance – although my philosophies are similar.

I have always ensured I have a healthy work/life balance in previous roles. I believe this is the key to not only maintaining your sanity, but also true happiness. I have now been working from home on my blog and Latte Magazine now for nearly 18 months and have found it quite hard at times to really grasp that perfect ‘balance’. While there are so many pros not only working for yourself, but working from home, there are also some negatives. I think it’s healthy to have a workspace outside your home, as convenient as it is. My mother always drilled in the importance of a happy home and also separating environments (that’s what you get having a forensic psychologist for a mum!) – But I do agree.

I now start my day with a strict routine and have set hours for most days. Of course, this is all pretty flexible which is fantastic, but the 1am Instagram monitoring probably needs to stop! There’s no real right or wrong answer, I just listen to my body and brain and adjust accordingly. No day or week is ever the same, so it’s all about introducing some sort of schedule.

Young and successful career girls often face many challenges, one being judgment passed on their looks and not their intellect.  I have faced it before – with guys and girls and I can only imagine that you have encountered similar situations – not being taken seriously at first face value.  What message can you give other career girls to help them moving forward.

Yes, I can understand how you feel. I previously worked with a very large health organisation and was judged all the time on how I looked (and for my job title!). After I while you just develop a thick skin and people always came around, however that doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt or was fair. I will add also, that it was always other women!

Being the old-ER and wiser woman that I am today, I can only put it down to jealousy – without sounding totally self-consumed. As a ‘blogger’ or ‘social media influencer’, looking a certain way can obviously work in your favour though. I do need to add, only my good pics go up online – we ALL have bad days. In this world there are all new ways for others to insult you.  Considering my readership and followers are quite large, I’ve been pretty lucky regarding “trolling” and online abuse for how I look. The first few times it really upset me. However, after I got over it and realised I must have “made it”, I knew this vicious behaviour was on their insecurities talking.

At the end of the day, I post images of myself and have created a business based on exactly that – me. So who am I to complain when people pass judgement? I just know I will raise my daughter exactly how I was, if you’ve got nothing nice to say, say nothing at all. It’s simple.

You are always looking fabulous. Your hair, makeup, outfits. You are comparable to a walking Vogue print! Who do you draw your inspiration from? 

I will accept your lovely comment, however, after reading my last answer, these are only the pictures you see! I am super lucky I have some great friends who help me to be my best too – including my ‘hair husband’! We all need one.

To be completely honest – my inspiration comes from nowhere in particular.  Obviously subconsciously we style ourselves and our homes based on something we’ve seen or been exposed to, but I don’t actively seek out magazines or other blogs for inspiration. I wear what I want to wear.

I definitely have a very traditional and girlie side of me and sometimes joke I was born in the wrong era.  I think I am a 40’s girl! I like blending old with new and making it my own (This makes me love her GuessJeans shoot even more!).

Who is that one career girl who inspires you?

Georgina Chapman. She is my ultimate career and girl crush.  Aside from being incredibly beautiful, she is a successful business woman (designer for Marchesa – one of my faves!), a wife, a mother and continues to evolve with everything that she does.  I adore her.

Every career girl has that one quote they live by. What is yours?

The best revenge is living well.

A fun one - if you could post a selfie with anyone, who would it be?

Cameron Diaz! I just love her bubbly persona and I think we could totally be besties!

Thank you Sarah Jane for taking the time for this interview – I want to provide young professionals with an insight into the world of inspirational women, and give them that motivation to continue to achieve.  It is refreshing to know that not everyone woke up like this Beyonce style, that through all of your success you are proud of being able to give back and that you have shared with me such exiting news about a bubba Sarah Jane on the way.  I for one am excited to hear about the next chapter of your life and maybe I can get you back to give us an insight into the world of a working mum (and if you ever become besties with Cameron Diaz, I shotgun a photobomb in the selfie!).

My new best workout buddy is Zova!

Anyone who knows me, knows that when I love something, I freaking LOVE it!  Fitness is one thing I enjoy and it helps keep me sane in what is otherwise a busy and exciting life.  I also love tweeting.  I tweet a lot!  I was therefore really excited when I was approached on Twitter about testing out this new fitness app.

I get a few requests to try things out, but a lot of the time I really cannot commit to it.  Partly because I am not keen on the product and partly because of time.  Also, I cannot stand those people on Twitter and Instagram who refer to products that you know they do not actually care about, but are just looking for something in return.

Anyway, wrong tangent!  A few months ago I was hitting a bit of a plateau with my training and since I no longer had BB to motivate me during our weekend workouts, I needed a new workout buddy!  Then along came the request to try out Zova.  I was skeptical at first because I thought that workouts would cater moreso to the beginner level and be boring (reveal: I do not do classes because I have the world's shortest attention span and I get sooooo bored!!).  I was still keen to try it out and given it was founded in Brisbane, I thought why not try and support the local guys.  Plus the benefit of testing out an app is that you get to provide your opinion.  Hey, I am a lawyer opinions is what I do best and here is my verdict:

Zova is freaking INCREDIBLE!!!

(and no, I am not getting paid to say that)

I prefer short and intense workouts and many other professional women would be in the same boat. When I saw that Zova had workouts that ranged from 2 minutes to 20 minutes, I thought this could be the beginning of a great new friendship. When I tried the "Plank It Out" workout, even though it said "hard", I was like please I plank all the time. Yeh, no, the next few days it hurt my core to even breathe. Same with the "Full Body Fitness" workout. It is only 8 minutes, but my gosh I found some new muscles.

 

Successful women are often so busy concentrating on everyone and everything else, that they sometimes neglect themselves. I challenge you all to start finding 10 minutes a day where you do a quick workout for YOU! There is no betting feeling than sweating it out and clearing your mind.

Here are some of the workouts I recommend for us busy #careergirls:

• Killer Legs & Butt
• Toned Arms & Abs
• Weekend Circuit Workout
• Ad-Break Abs
• 5 minute Push-up Pyramid (ok I kind of did this workout in my office yesterday lunch time)
• 7 minute Full Body

I am going to shamelessly plug Zova away (it is getting released shortly - keep a look out!), because I am now fully team #zovagirl. I like to be challenged daily and the endless workouts available on the app, I can be. With my 30th birthday only 6 weeks away, I also need a bit of motivation to make sure I am looking my best.

We have to take our work life so seriously, so working out should be fun!  In the words of Elle Woods 'exercise gives your endorphins, endorphins make you happy'.

Cas

Yes, I am a girl. Yes, I like sports!

I get emails and messages from young professionals around the world about different work situations and asking me now they should best deal with it.  One topic I get constantly is invitations to sporting events. 

The ladies I hear from are either invited to a sporting event as the "token" female or not invited as it is assumed they don't like sport.  Both cases are ignorant and outdated and I have been in both.  Admittingly, the best of the bad situations would be the token female invitation and then being able to hold a conversation about what is happening in said game (just don't be that overly excited female throwing beers at the poor bloke in front of you because he barracks for the other side).

But what do you do if you are not invited because (shock) you're female, and what do you do when you are told the reason why is because they "didn't think you would enjoy the game"? 

The best way to deal with it is to directly address the issue. Say something. However, if you are anything like me, in times of potential confrontation the conversation never comes out as I actually planned it in my head! 

Thankfully talking about attendance at sporting events isn't confrontational (well I hope not). Simply acknowledge what was said, but reference the sport/match/game and how you would liked to come along next time.  Might sound bold, but it works. 

It is also good to make your sporting interests known in the office. I am not talking about pinning Qld Reds flags to your desk and substituting your suit jacket for a Broncos hoodie, I am talking about making conversation with your male colleagues about the games from the weekend. Trust me - it works!!  A lot of companies also have office sports teams which are all mixed.  Joining up for the touch footy or soccer team is another great way to show your interest.

I love my sports and I really enjoying entertaining (or being entertained) at sporting events!  Just because your female doesn't mean you are completely inept with any type of sporting prowess.  A few years ago, I was sent tickets to the Ashes from a male Managing Director because he ended up being wrong on a footy rule that we were debating the weekend before at a Broncos match.  Best thing is I now have a great working relationship with this MD and he even started hosting female only sporting events - organises and pays for a box at the union/afl/cricket, gift bags for everyone going, cabs to and from the stadium and full hospitality at the game.  We need more MDs like this!

My lasting comment to you - don't just sit there and take it, but don't go to the extreme.  Deal with the situation as it comes and take proactive steps to prevent it from happening again.  In an ideal world (which will never happen), there would be no issue with female workers being asked, or attending, company marketing events that are sports related.  Until we get such ideal world, don't throw a private tantrum - DO something about changing it.

Take some "me time" - avoid a burnout (and go to a day spa)

Anyone who has ever suffered a burnout, never wants to experience it again.  It is not a good feeling and once you have been there, trust me - you will be taking steps to make sure it does not happen again!

A burnout affects people differently and for me it usually results in a "meltdown" of some sorts. I'm not talking a tantrum or the like, I am more like a balloon that has reached maximum size and is just tethering on the stages of popping.  It just takes one little "prick", and I am popped (and it is usually in response to something so little and "un-pop worthy", but I am just that on edge, it has put me over). Thankfully, over the years I have realised what I need to do in order to avoid the burnout phase.  Even with the best intentions though, I can come close to a burnout.  I don't want that for me and I don't want that for you.  As they say - every time a rubber band is stretched, while it does "bounce back", it never bounces back to the same shape it was previously.   Don't let your burnouts take you to a place you can't come back from.

Finding what works for you 

The best mechanisms for avoiding a burnout will be different for every one. 

My best good girlfriend Jessica Turner has her own blog on health and lifestyle and kindly shared her views on the importance of looking after yourself. 

I've learnt to make nurturing myself a priority. I know if I take the time to do the things which give me a sense of wellbeing and create space in my life.. I'm better at work, in my relationships and I'm just plain happier!

When I forget or ignore what my mind and body needs, I'm not the best version of myself.

Its not about being indulgent or lazy, self care is giving yourself the love and respect you deserve and truly need to for a healthy body and mind. 

My favourite ways to nurture myself are yoga, meditation, getting a facial or massage, taking a long bath and taking myself out for a beautiful nourishing breakfast at my favourite cafe. These simple expressions of self love keep me smiling.

Luckily, Jessica and I have similar mechanisms in place for avoiding a burnout.  For me, it's not just about going for the gym and doing coffee, it's about scheduling time where I have no choice but to unplug.  I love getting a massage but have never been big on getting a facial (I thought they sounded pretentious).  However, as I edge towards 30 (under two months to go!), I have been looking at ways to kill two birds with one stone - preventing the ageing process and unplugging at the same time. 

My increased work with WLAQ has decreased my available "me time", but if I want to offer myself fully to advancing women in the legal profession and also in my work, I need to be on my A-Game.  I realised recently that I needed to schedule in "me time" to unplug (and avoid a burnout) and decided to do something different (Jess' influence) and put a call out on Twitter for some day spa recommendations.  Noel and his team at Aquarius Health & MediSpa replied and organised for me to come in for a facial and use their day spa facilities.  When I walked in I thought of Louis Litt and his mud spa scene with Mike where he stands up (naked) and says "I cannot mix work with mudding", so iPhone was switched off the moment I walked in!

I had the best time at Aquarius!  I didn't realise there were so many things you can get done at the day spa (Aquarius also has Cosmetic Image Clinics for those who want to take a different route for relaxation).  I told the beauty therapist that I was not really big on facials, and her response reinforced a message I remember reading in one of Dr Lois Frankel's books - your appearance is your brand and you are judged on your appearance before you even have a chance to speak and show your worth.  I realised that if I felt like crap, all tired and sluggy, I probably looked that way too! 

While I wish I could say I spent a few hours using these facilities, I must admit to feeling a little guilty for not "doing anything", and only spent about 45mins taking advantage of the quiet (and no iPhone!).  I honestly felt so good after I walked out. My only mistake was not arranging a massage (ok ok, I have booked in for another treatment in a few weeks time and I actually don't feel guilty about it!)

Life is a marathon 

Burnouts are not a pretty thing.  As Kelly Cutrone said, young girls need to realise life is a marathon not a sprint.  No one can fully prepare you for the transition from University to a full time career, but we can give you tips and guide you.  Learn from those who have been-there-done-that.  I want all you young professional women to realise is that you need to make a habit to schedule "me time" where you can 100% unplug.  Take time to pamper yourself.  Relax, unplug and go and get a treatment - look after your health!  

Find what works for you - but do not feel guilty for spending time on yourself.  Mental wellbeing is just as important as your physical.  

Go and check your diary and schedule some "me time". 

 

Cas 

Thank you to Aquarius Health & MediSpa for giving me the royal treatment.  The staff did not know that Noel had organised the day for me, or that I would be writing this blog, which is what really impressed me about their service!  To them, I was just another customer.  I can't wait to go again.

 

 

The art of justification drinking

Ask any successful career girl what she does when she gets home from work, and the majority answer will be "I pour a glass of wine".  Why? Because she deserves it.  We all deserve it.

Right now, I am sitting here with a bottle of Wirra Wirra Church Block cracked, my first glass poured and a nice array of cheese and crackers beside me. Why? Because I had a successful week at work. When I pour my second, it will be because I had a productive weekend - gym time, catching up with friends, mentoring a University student and preparing for the week ahead. If I decide to pour a fourth, it will be because it's Sunday evening and I'm giving a nod to the week ahead (and I don't want to waste a nice bottle of red). 

In early November last year, I read an article about this type of behaviour, it's called obvilion drinking. High powered women using alcohol as a time out from doing it all. As Psychoanalyst Jan Bauer is quoted as saying, these women use alcohol to take them out of their "perfectionism". 

I am only 29, so I don't necessarily fall within the target demographic of the comments in the article, but I soon will be.  It is alarming to me, that what I see as an innocent knock off drink, could in years to come be classed as oblivion drinking. But what is the difference between an Aussie knock off drink with my fellow career girls and excessive drinking? To me, excessive would be drunk on a school night, or in the case of a weekend, not remembering what happened the night before, or well, drinking to oblivion. 

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare says that "risky drinking" is anything more than 2 standard glasses per day.  As an Aussie, 2 drinks a day sounds like a relatively low amount to me. But when I look further into the effects of risky drinking for someone my age - pre children - I am putting the cap back on my bottle of Wirra and not having that second drink. I don't want premature menopause, increased risk of infertility and miscarriage or my brain development to be affected. Not going to lie, I do want that second glass of wine, but I value my health more than a half hour escape from reality (because quite honestly my reality is pretty good and I have no reason to want to escape into oblivion).  

How am I going to manage this in the future? Well, I won't be saying no to catch ups after work, networking events or lunches with clients. I will be saying no to the wine. I will be managing my intake and making sure other young women know the potential effects of alcohol and this concept of oblivion drinking. For now, less buttoms up, more buttoms down. 

City Beat: Women Run the World

Now I have made a Media and Gallery page, I will be uploading some articles, pictures etc. 

Here is the City Beat article following the International Women's Day Debate, where I was thrilled to have been represented in caricature! 

Date: 

8 March 2014 

Source: 

http://www.couriermail.com.au/business/city-beat-women-run-the-world/story-fnihsps3-1226848524368