Fighting for gender equality or any systematic change can be exhausting. Especially, when you fight so hard and yet somehow people like Andrew Tate gain traction and abortion access is denied. It is gruelling work, which often pushes people to their wits ends, questioning humanity and losing hope. The truth about fighting so hard for change is, sometimes you lose hope and it's okay ...

So, when it all seems too much, what can we do to stay motivated to create change?

Firstly, remember that progress is being made all around us; with new consent education laws being introduced and free period products being made accessible in high schools. The media often aligns its focus with the negative news making it super important to follow accounts which inspire you and remind you that progress is actually being made. Consuming diverse and inspiring content will help keep your spirits high even when it all seems a little too much. I also think it is really important to remember that we don't need to change the whole world to have progress. Although, arguably small sometimes, progress is progress and together we can continue to change the whole world. So, celebrate the small wins, after all they're still wins.

Surround yourself with a group of like-minded individuals, a community of people advocating and fighting for the same change as you. This way they can support you on your journey and will also have first-hand knowledge of how and why you are feeling certain ways.

Having this support especially during the low times, is super important and can play a major role in helping you continuing to fight so fiercely for change. We are a part of something big by advocating for gender equality and together we are stronger. Together progress can be made!

Practice self-care. Be kind to yourself and provide yourself with the time and space to heal, to come back stronger to fight for systematic change. Self-care can look different for different people. It could include mentally or physically taking a break, doing some exercise, having a hot bath or indulging in some delicious. However your self-care looks, just make sure you are staying on top of it and always being kind to yourself.

Fighting for change can be tiring but is worth every inch of the exhaustion. Celebrate all the wins, find a community of similar, strong-minded individuals and above all else be kind to yourself. You are doing incredible work, and all of us here at We Are Womxn are so proud of the steps you’re taking to create change.

By Alexis Pallister

If advocacy burnout does creep in and you want to talk to someone here is a list of a few mental health services, you could access:

Lifeline: 13 11 14

Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

Samaritans: 135 247

Headspace: 1800 650 890

QLife: 1800 184 527