To celebrate International Women's Day, we take a look at the 20 essential skills every woman should know - from changing a tyre to applying perfect subtle make-up.
International Women's Day (8 March) is a day to celebrate women's success and their contribution to the workplace and society. Events are taking place around the globe and online, starting Friday 6 March 2009.
You also can see events on the International Women's Day website.
To the skills, then:
How to tell a white lie convincingly
It's not nice to lie - but sometimes it's necessary. Maintain eye contact with the person you are lying to and act confident and relaxed. Use details to make the story convincing but make them unverifiable so it is more difficult to be caught out. Throw it casually into the conversation and don't make a big deal about it.
How to change a plug
Screw off the outer covering. Take off 3in of the insulation and cut the outer layer of each wire until you see the copper wires. Feed the wires through the cord grip and into correct terminal. Blue wire goes to the left, brown to the right, and green and yellow to the top. Check fuse and re-fasten cover.
How to blow-dry your hair
Section your hair with clips into three layers on each side. Take a big round brush and wrap a layer around it. Dry from underneath for a count of eight, then on top for another eight seconds before rolling the brush down and curling the end under as you go. Keep the dryer pointed down the shaft of hair.
How to buy the right bra
Over 70 per cent women wear the wrong bra size. Get measured regularly, especially after a change in weight or having a baby. The centre should fit flat against the body, there should be no bulging out the top of the cups and the band should not rise up the back. The support needs to come from the band, not the straps.
How to change a tyre
Make sure you have a wrench, jack and spare tyre in the boot. Use the wrench to loosen the bolts on the tyre before jacking the car up. Take the bolts off and remove the tyre. Put the new tyre on, screw the bolts back on and make sure they are tight. Release the jack and off you go.
How to get served first at the bar
Pay attention to whether they have a system going from one end of the bar to the other and position yourself accordingly or if not, then stand next to the cash register. Lean forward and try to catch the bartender's eye and have cash or a credit card in your hand so you look ready.
Talk and eavesdrop at the same time
Appear engaged in the conversation by maintaining eye contact and leaning in towards your colleague. Nod your head periodically to show interest and every 30 seconds or so throw in a "right" or "yeah" which are good verbal acknowledgements to most subjects.
How to get angry without crying
This is a difficult one (for us at least!). Nothing makes you feel weaker than starting to cry when you are raving mad about something. Take deep, even breaths. As soon as your body senses disjointed breathing it panics and releases adrenalin. Try not to tense up and leave the situation before you become overwhelmed.
How to write a good complaint letter
Be persistent but not aggressive. Mention you are a regular customer, especially if you are a member of any rewards programmes and compliment another aspect of the service/item so they know you are a reasonable person. State what you expect them to give you and follow up with letters or calls until you receive it.
How to apply 'barely there' makeup
Apply a light foundation or tinted moisturiser to the whole face. Sweep a pink blush on the apple of the cheeks and up the cheekbones. Apply a pale highlighter just below the brow bone and on the inside of the eye. Add a coat of mascara and a clear gloss and you are good to go.
How to throw a dinner party
Don't try and be too clever. Stick with simple, flavourful dishes where you can prepare most of it in advance. Give yourself plenty of time, get ready well before the guests arrive, and have nibbles and wine out already. Seat people so everyone is included in the conversation and put music on in the background for a relaxed atmosphere.
How to say no
Women often have a problem saying no whether it's to bosses, family or friends Remember it's not your job to please everyone all the time. Be assertive, look the person in the eyes and say no firmly but nicely and explain why you can't do it in simple, clear terms. Be sure not to back down.
How to make a cheap dress look designer
My mum always says it's not how much it cost but how you wear it. Posture and confidence go a long way so stand up tall with your shoulders back. Make sure the dress fits you well and you have the correct underwear on. Accessorise with classic jewellery, killer high heels and flawless makeup.
How to drink without getting drunk
I love a good cocktail but not the foggy head the next morning. Be sure you have eaten and are well hydrated before you start drinking. Make sure you always have a glass of water on the table and take a sip or two between each alcoholic one. Take an aspirin, mutli-vitamin and more water before you go to sleep.
How to be dumped gracefully
Listen to what he has to say - it might be reasonable. Try not to get mad or cry in front of him and if you feel yourself welling up then leave the room. If you want to say something, do, but try to remain calm and don't start accusing or blaming him. Go home and take his number off your phone so drunk dialling is not an option!
How to dump someone gracefully
Choose an appropriate time when he doesn't have to be anywhere and do it at his place so he can retreat when you leave. Explain your reasons simply and clearly and don't bring up old arguments or start name calling. If he gets mad or upset, try hard to remain calm and be firm in your decision.
How to put up shelves
Use a spirit level to mark a straight guideline on the wall and measure positions of the brackets on the line. Mark the fixing positions through the holes of the brackets. Drill each hole slightly smaller than the screw plug, bang in screw plugs with a hammer, then screw the brackets into place. Place the shelf on top.
How to fit everything in your handbag
Have a clear out and work out what you actually need. Set up a system and keep things in specific pockets each time with items such as keys, tube passes and lip glosses in outer pockets you can reach them easily. If you change bags often keep the essentials in a pouch you can just transfer across.
How to trust your instinct
Your 'instinct' is your subconscious mind taking in small things your conscious mind hasn't had time to process. It is your best defence against danger. If your gut feeling is telling you something listen to it. You may feel you're being paranoid but it is better to be safe than sorry.
How to feel confident naked
This is difficult for any woman but remember everyone has issues and no one notices yours as much as you do. First fix the lighting so it is soft and flattering. Focus on your best features and position yourself so these bits are seen more. Embrace compliments and remember, guys are just happy to see you naked.
Source: handbag.com
