WHAT MAKES A WOMAN HAPPY

Read all but #7 😊. These four models are from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Despite their physical differences, they have more in common than what can be seen with the naked eye. For example, in an informal survey I made among women from 30 countries and different stages of life, I found very similar answers. I asked them what makes them the happiest as women and when they feel most appreciated.  This is a summary of the most recurring responses in random order:

1. Having personal goals and meeting them. From finishing the laundry to learning a new language. From reading a book to completing a degree.

 2. Being pampered with small details. Women feel happy and loved with a word of thanks, a walk, a warm embrace, a flower, a chocolate, watching a movie, a kiss, a charming smile, a note of appreciation, an unexpected call from a loved one, and many other details that create fond memories.

3. Being appreciated and recognized for the things they do. This is like a shower of flowers for women, they love doing things for others and being appreciated for it.

4. The sense of belonging and genuine relationships. Women need a circle that makes them feel loved and needed.  They value authentic relationships.

5. Being supported and listened attentively by their loved ones. It seems that everybody needs cheerleaders in certain moments of life.  Women expressed how much they value the support and undivided attention from their loved ones.

6. Being exclusive in the heart of a man. Knowing that her partner has eyes only for her can have a tremendous influence on the happiness of a woman’s heart. They like to sing “I know I am the only one”.

7. Time and money for shopping. To be honest, I was hesitant to report this answer, but as a researcher, I am obliged to present it even if I am harmed by it😊. As expected, several women said they are happy when they have time and money for shopping.

 8. The sense of fulfilling God´s purpose in their lives. Having the assurance that God is guiding her life and that she is following God’s will makes a woman resilient against adversities and challenges.

9. Married women appreciate receiving help in the household chores. This is not a joke! Many women expressed how happy and loved they feel when men help with the children, the laundry, and the dishes. Take note, guys!

10. When their opinions are requested, respected, and considered by their fathers, co-workers, husbands, brothers, friends, and their children, ladies have a special sense of satisfaction. Women are happy when they are given the opportunity to express their feelings and opinions.

11. When they are trusted with serious responsibilities and tasks. Women are capable and they are happy to be given the opportunity to demonstrate it.  

12. Quality time with the loved ones. Time with no phones, no computers, no television, no video games… Real time with real people.

13. Married women are happy when they see their husbands and children happy. This is one of the most recurrent answers among married women. Several women expressed that seeing their husbands and children happy is the most valuable gift they could dream of. 

14. Serving and helping others to grow and be happy. Women have this instinct of service, they feel happy by investing time and effort to help others achieve their dreams.

15. Eating chocolate without gaining weight.  No comments.

This week marks the International Women's Day. It seems to me that there are two meaningful ways to celebrate this day: (1) that all men (fathers, husbands, sons, friends, male classmates and co-workers) take advantage of this list to show them the love, respect, and appreciation they deserve. (2) that these expressions of love and respect be not limited to March 8, but practiced during every day of the year (except point #7, of course). I am convinced that it is easier to recognize the value and dignity of the feminine gender when we remember that God created both man and woman in His own image and likeness (Genesis 1:27).

Happy International Women's Day!

Aneury Vargas,

AIIAS, Silang, Cavite

March 2017.