<http://schema.org/articleBody>
" &amp;quot;I believe that women think in a more collaborative way and bring a respect for other voices.&amp;quot; What did it feel like when you were elected the first female Speaker of the House?  Very exciting \u2014 because the connection of women to politics and public service is very direct. The reason I&amp;#039;m in politics is an extension of my concern and care for my children and the needs of all children in our country \u2014 their health, their education, the economic security of their families, a clean environment, and a world at peace. How has being a woman and a mother informed your political career?  I have five children, and the management of time and the diplomacy of dealing with all different personalities teaches you a lot about listening and using your time wisely. Those lessons have served me well here also, and they&amp;#039;re valuable to any mother in her professional life. I believe that women think in a more collaborative way and bring a respect for other voices. Why aren&amp;#039;t there more women getting involved in politics? Maybe because government hasn&amp;#039;t appealed to them in a way that seems relevant to their lives. But whether or not women feel inclined to be involved with politics by voting, supporting someone else, or writing a letter or email to a member of congress, they should \u2014 because their lives are directly affected. Women in America can have whatever they decide they want, so long as they make a point of making their voices heard. How can we get involved?  Have confidence. Value your experience: Whether it&amp;#039;s your upbringing or your education or your professional experience, look inward. Look inside yourself and say, &amp;quot;I have something different that I can present. My thoughts on this subject are valuable because they reflect my experience.&amp;quot; Ask the obvious questions that others might be afraid to ask, because if the answer isn&amp;#039;t clear, that&amp;#039;s a sign there&amp;#039;s work to be done. The best advice I ever received the first time I ran for office was &amp;quot;Be yourself and act upon that.&amp;quot; "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.redbookmag.com/life/money-career/interviews/a2278/speak-your-mind/>