The tired cliché “women’s work is never done” is a reminder that a woman, whether she be housewife or C.E.O., carries a tremendous nonstop workload. With an inbox that is never empty and a “to-do” list that never quite gets done, most women are chasing an illusive ideal put forth in the booming economies of the 1980s and 1990s and continues today – the Superwoman myth.

Superwoman sparkles all day at work, then spends one hour of quality time with her children after school. She manages to exercise, prepare a gourmet meal, and serves up a cold martini to her husband as he walks in the door.

Most of us, despite our talents and commitment to work, family and careers, never will have the stamina or drive of Ms. Super.

So how do women accomplish their goals without burning out with obligation overload and withering on the vine due to lack of self-nurturing?

The secret of any woman’s success can be found in those with whom she associates – her Empowerment Circle of support. Whether you are trying to lose weight, accumulate wealth, deal with a difficult child, care for a sick parent, manage a demanding career—having supportive, empathetic, conscientious people in your inner circle is critical. Without these individuals, most women don’t have a chance at achieving personal or professional aspirations.

To draw the right members into your circle to help you achieve your ambitions, you must first set a specific goal. Is it to lose weight? Start an entrepreneurial business? Further your education? Whatever that intention is will determine the make-up of your circle—this is not a “one size fits all concept.”

Make sure each individual you identify is someone you trust and respect. As you are pursuing your goal, this group will supply information, resources and support. In order to maximize your chances of accomplishing your goal, you will have to share sensitive information about yourself and receive constructive feedback. If you do not feel completely safe with the individuals in the circle, you will be reluctant to participate and reveal yourself. At this point, your empowerment circle becomes nothing more than a book club or sorority meeting.

Once you have identified and assessed potential members, invite them into your circle. This is a very critical step as it will require you to bare your soul. Remember, under the Superwoman mantra, a woman in need of help is an oxymoron. You have to shed any deep-rooted thoughts about going it alone; thoughts that may hinder you from building strong supportive relationships. After all, you’re not asking for a handout. You are acknowledging that you are on a journey, one that will be made easier by the support of others. For many 21st century powerful women, this is a difficult task.

Once you have developed your empowerment circle, whether you meet once a month in person, twice a month or share a weekly phone call, getting connected with others is an effective way to balance the demands of career and family, accomplish a career goal, manage your weight, or start your own business.

Areva Martin

Areva Martin Companies, Inc.

www.arevamartin.com