Balancing the Scales: A Strengths-Based Take on IWD 2026

International Women’s Day for us at StrengthsTrail, is about celebrating and also reflecting on what still needs to shift.

This year’s theme from UN Women is “Balance the Scales.” And while that sounds like a big, systemic goal (which it is), we think it also shows up in smaller, everyday ways, like how we recognise the different strengths women bring to the table, the meeting, the team and their friends and families.

A Note from Agi and Kate

For us, equity has always been connected to potential (both individual and collective).

“Balancing the scales isn’t just about equal numbers. It’s about creating environments where women’s strengths are expected, valued and visible. When that happens, it doesn’t just shift a workplace, it shifts what leadership looks like.”
— Agi & Kate, Co-Founders, StrengthsTrail

If we want to truly balance the scales, awareness alone isn’t enough. It’s about small, intentional actions, and obviously we are biased(!), but these actions can be particularly powerful when we lean into our strengths.

Here are a few ways we've thought of, that your CliftonStrengths might help.

1. Amplify Voices That Aren’t Always Heard

Creating space matters.

If you have Includer, you probably notice quickly when someone hasn’t had a chance to contribute. Use that instinct to pull people into the conversation.

If Communication is one of your talents, storytelling is your superpower. You can help bring visibility to ideas or experiences that might otherwise stay quiet.

And if you lead with Individualisation, you know that support isn’t one-size-fits-all. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is recognise what someone specifically needs to thrive.

2. Challenge Bias When It Shows Up

Balancing the scales also means noticing when things aren’t quite right and being willing to say or do something about it.

People with Command often find it easier to name what others might hesitate to point out.

Those with Restorative tend to see inequality as a problem worth fixing—whether that’s in hiring processes, team dynamics, or everyday habits.

And if Belief sits high in your strengths, your values can provide the backbone for standing up for what’s fair and balanced.

3. Invest in Inclusive Leadership

Balancing the scales isn’t just about fixing the present, but also about shaping the future.

If Developer is one of your strengths, mentoring and encouraging others might already come naturally. Those small moments of belief can make a huge difference.

People with Strategic can often see alternative paths forward... new ways leadership might look across different stages of life and career.

And Consistency helps ensure that systems and decisions are fair and transparent for everyone.

There’s no single way to move the needle, but every strength has a role to play.

So the question this International Women’s Day is simple:

Which of your strengths will you lean into to help balance the scales?

If you’re curious to join us on the Strengths Trail and explore your strengths further, take another look at your CliftonStrengths 34 Report, or take a wander at StrengthsTrail.com.