Grief can hit us like a tidal wave—sudden, overwhelming, and deeply painful. On International Women’s Day, we often focus on celebrating women’s achievements. But it’s also an important time to recognise the hidden losses many women carry and the silent strength it takes to navigate them.

While grief is often seen as a personal journey, it’s also a shared experience—one that connects women across cultures and communities. In that shared space, we find not only sorrow but also solidarity, resilience, and the power to rise again.

What Is Grief?

Grief is a natural emotional response to loss. It’s not limited to the death of a loved one—it can be triggered by the end of a relationship, the loss of a dream, missed opportunities, or even a loss of identity.

For women, grief can carry many faces—often shaped by societal expectations, cultural norms, and systemic inequality. International Women’s Day invites us to pause and reflect on the ways women experience grief and how they turn pain into power.

As someone who has walked this path, I know it’s possible to move forward after loss and rebuild a meaningful life. You can turn pain into purpose.

The Many Faces of Loss

1. Loss of Identity

Women are often expected to play multiple roles—mother, partner, employee, caregiver—without much room to explore their true selves. When we lose a job, end a relationship, or step away from a role we’ve poured ourselves into, we can feel lost.

One of my clients experienced this after leaving a long-term role where she had given her all. With support, she began to heal, reconnect with who she really was, and find new purpose in her next chapter.

We can't always control what happens to us, but we can choose how we respond. Shifting from a victim mindset to a growth mindset makes all the difference.

2. Loss of Opportunities

Many women have faced missed chances due to unequal access to education, career advancement, or leadership roles. These losses are real and deserve to be acknowledged. International Women’s Day gives us space to grieve what’s been lost—while also celebrating how far we’ve come and the doors now opening for others.

3. Loss of Safety

For some, grief stems from the loss of personal safety—whether through violence, discrimination, or injustice. These wounds run deep. It’s essential to honour this grief while working collectively to create safer spaces for all women, everywhere.

From Shared Grief to Collective Strength

Though our stories may differ, many women know the pain of loss. Through shared grief, we discover connection—and through that connection, we build strength.

International Women’s Day reminds us of the power of community, empathy, and collective healing. In sisterhood, we find courage and hope.

Moving Through Grief with Purpose

Here are a few ways we can navigate grief while reclaiming our strength:

1. Reflect and Accept

Grief is a normal part of life. It’s okay to feel sad, angry, or lost. Accepting those feelings—without judgement—is the first step towards healing. International Women’s Day is a perfect time to reflect not only on your pain but also on your courage and achievements.

2. Build Supportive Communities

We heal better when we’re not alone. Reach out to the women in your life. Share your stories, listen to theirs, and create spaces where it’s safe to be real. Whether it’s over a cuppa or through a support group, connection makes all the difference.

3. Use Your Voice for Change

Grief can become a driving force for positive change. Whether you're raising awareness, advocating for equality, or supporting others, your voice matters. Use it to challenge injustice, lift others up, and help create a more compassionate world.

A Gentle Reminder

As we mark International Women’s Day, let’s honour both the pain and the power that women carry. Let’s create a world where grief is acknowledged, voices are heard, and healing is possible.

When we face grief with love and resilience, we open the door to transformation—not just for ourselves, but for others too.

Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?

If you’re navigating loss and wondering how to move forward, you don’t have to do it alone.

👉 Read the article and take the free self-assessment quiz to discover how you're coping with grief.

👉 Or book a gentle discovery call to explore support that’s right for you.

👉 You can also download my free guide: “10 Common Mistakes When Handling Your Grief”.

Let’s work together to decrease fear and increase love and kindness—one step at a time.