Sisterhood: Why We Need More of It

Sisterhood: Why We Need More of It

Sisterhood has been on my mind a lot lately, especially as I’m sculpting my latest series dedicated to women. And I’ve been pondering what it means and why it’s so important. 

So, here’s a story.

Some years ago, I worked alongside a woman who, for all intents and purposes, should have been my ally. We were both excelling in our respective roles, navigating a male-dominated industry, and balancing life’s chaos. It should’ve been the perfect setup for mutual respect and collaboration. Instead, we clashed.

I felt ignored and undervalued, sensing that my knowledge and experience threatened her. I didn’t handle it well. Instead of reaching out or seeking understanding, I let resentment take hold. I’m guilty of what I call “sister bashing.” I didn’t lift her up; I let my frustration boil and may have vented to others when I should have managed the situation better.

Looking back, I see how that dynamic undermined both of us. Feeling disrespected, I responded in kind. But what did I gain from it? A fleeting sense of superiority? A false belief that I was protecting my worth? In the end, it left me feeling smaller, not stronger.

Why Sisterhood Matters

In working America, the dynamic between women can be fraught with unspoken tensions. We’re told to fight harder, climb faster, and prove ourselves in ways men never do. Yet, instead of forming alliances, we sometimes turn that fight inward and against each other. But sisterhood, especially in the workplace, is a necessity. Women in male-dominated fields face unique challenges—proving ourselves, securing a seat at the table, and navigating biases. 

Instead of supporting one another, we might find ourselves caught up in competition or letting ego diminish one another. This mindset, where we view each other as threats instead of allies, can be toxic. Feeling the constant need to prove ourselves smarter or more capable than our peers isn’t just misguided; it’s harmful. We face enough self-doubt without needing to criticize each other.

Here’s the truth: we’re stronger together. The more we support each other, the higher we all rise. Sisterhood in the workplace means cheering each other on, advocating for one another, and realizing that someone else’s knowledge or success doesn’t diminish our own.

Sisterhood in Friendship

This isn’t just about work; sisterhood is equally vital in our personal lives. Think about the women who’ve shown up for you—a friend who listened without judgment, a neighbor who stepped in during tough times, or even a stranger who offered a kind word when you needed it most.

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I discovered a sisterhood I hadn’t fully realized existed. It came in many forms—daily check-ins to ensure I was okay, rides to appointments, taking turns to sit with me after surgery so I never felt alone, and even taking care of my yard when I couldn’t! These acts of kindness meant the world to me, and I’ll never forget the love shown.

Sisterhood in action.

There were also those from afar—friends and past colleagues—who reached out. Some shared their own stories of survival, offering solidarity that only comes from shared experience. Others sent words of encouragement, checked in, or let me know I was in their thoughts.

These experiences reshaped my understanding of friendship. They showed me the power of sisterhood, reminding me that no matter how independent we think we are, we’re stronger together. My friendships have both rekindled and deepened, rooted in a trust and vulnerability I hadn’t fully appreciated before.

Choosing Sisterhood

I won’t pretend I’ve always gotten it right. I’m not the best at regular check in’s and would like to do better. And there have been times when ego or hurt feelings made me want to lash out– and times when I have. But through experience and life lessons, I know that taking the high road feels so much better.

Cancer, in particular, reshaped my perspective, teaching me that life’s too short to let pride or competition overshadow meaningful connections, and opening my eyes as to what’s most important. Now, I try to approach relationships with more grace and generosity.

Sisterhood isn’t just about survival; it’s about thriving—together. It’s about creating a world where women celebrate and support each other without hesitation or fear. A world where we lift each other up instead of tearing each other down.

I’m still learning and growing in this journey of life, and sisterhood. I’ve stumbled, and I’ll probably stumble again. But I’m committed to it because I’ve seen the power of women supporting women. When we show up for each other, we all rise.