“We need women at all levels, including the top, to change the dynamic, reshape the conversation, to make sure women’s voices are heard and heeded, not overlooked and ignored.” – Sheryl Sandberg
EVERY March, the world pauses to recognise the contributions, strength, and resilience of women on International Women’s Day. Social media fills with inspiring quotes, organisations host talks and events around the theme, and bouquets of flowers or boxes of chocolates are handed out in offices and communities. The atmosphere is celebratory, with some even going to the extent of decorating workspaces in purple.
Yet amid these well-meaning gestures, a question quietly lingers: beyond the flowers and public praise, what do women truly want?
I was reminded of this recently during a conversation with a close friend over coffee. She had just received a beautiful bouquet from her workplace in honour of the occasion. While she appreciated the gesture, she laughed gently and said, “The flowers are lovely, but honestly, what I’d really like is for my ideas to be heard during meetings.”
Her words stayed with me. They were simple, but they captured something deeper.
Like many symbolic occasions, the spirit of International Women’s Day should not be confined to a single day on the calendar. Its meaning should extend far beyond that. For many women, what matters most is not a once-a-year tribute, but everyday respect, opportunity, and understanding.
At the heart of it, women value genuine recognition of their contributions. Across homes, workplaces, and communities, many juggle multiple roles – professionals, caregivers, leaders, daughters, partners, and friends. Much of this work, particularly the invisible labour that sustains families and social networks, often goes unnoticed. Acknowledging these efforts can be powerful, and sometimes the most meaningful words are the simplest: “I appreciate what you do” or “Thank you for going above and beyond.”
Equally important is the desire to be valued for who they are, not just the roles they fulfil. Too often, recognition centres on traditional expectations or surface-level compliments. Yet women contribute ideas, creativity, and leadership across every field. Being listened to in conversations, included in decisions, and respected for one’s perspective sends a powerful message that women’s voices matter and deserve space.
Support is another aspect that carries great significance. It can take many forms: fair opportunities in the workplace, shared responsibilities at home, or encouragement to pursue personal ambitions and aspirations. In many societies, women continue to navigate structural and cultural barriers. Moving beyond symbolic gestures towards meaningful support helps create environments where women can truly thrive rather than merely cope.
This is not to say that celebrations have no place. International Women’s Day remains an important reminder of both the progress achieved and the work that still lies ahead. Moments of appreciation shine a spotlight on women’s achievements and inspire future generations. But real progress is sustained not through occasional gestures, but through everyday actions grounded in sincerity and awareness.
It is also important to recognise that women’s experiences are not identical. Every woman’s journey is shaped by her circumstances, aspirations, and values. Some prioritise career advancement, others focus on family or personal passions, and many strive to balance all of these at once. Respecting these choices and supporting women in whichever paths they pursue is itself a meaningful form of recognition.
Ultimately, what women seek is neither complicated nor extravagant. It is respect over rhetoric, opportunity over symbolism, and genuine support over temporary praise.
When appreciation becomes part of daily life rather than an annual event, International Women’s Day evolves into something far more meaningful: a shared commitment to recognising women not just today, but every day.
After all, true appreciation is not measured by the size of a bouquet or the number of posts shared online. It is reflected in how women are valued, heard, and supported in the ordinary moments that shape everyday life.
And the best and most meaningful way to mark this occasion is to pause and appreciate the women around us – our mothers, partners, sisters, friends, and colleagues. Not only today, but in the everyday interactions that often go unnoticed. Because when respect and appreciation become part of daily life, the spirit of International Women’s Day extends far beyond a single celebration.
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of Sarawak Tribune. The writer can be reached at Shirley.suat@gmail.com.
