Women today need a balanced solution to breakdown barriers and create opportunities, Hilda Pinnix-Ragland told the Women in Businesses luncheon attendees Aug. 12.

As Progress Energy’s Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Pinnix-Ragland knows what it means to stand on the shoulders of others to reach lofty goals. During her keynote speech, she explained the balancing act women need includes education, physical and mental preparedness, planning and integrity.

“It’s about women taking on those tough tasks,” she said. “Women are strong.”

Settling for mediocrity shouldn’t be on the menu, but women who are willing to help themselves can create opportunities.

“Don’t ever ever be just complacent,” she said.

She also told women that having a spirit of competence, confidence and courage will take them far in the workplace and in life. Life is not easy, she said, but if you do nothing about it, you don’t reap any of the benefits.

Education is key to getting ahead. Even after you stop working, it is important to educate yourself through reading and discussing. When you get into business, you have to know and understand your work, Pinnix-Ragland said. Know where your revenue streams come from and make sure you do your homework.

That’s not the only continuous education Pinnix-Ragland advises. She said in the down economy, she frequently sees people going back to community colleges to learn a new skill set. She actually recommends it as long as students know what they want to do with their studies.

“Knowledge is powerful,” she said.

Even those who don’t have a degree and don’t plan on going back to school anytime soon can continue educating themselves through experience.

Women also need to take care of themselves. Too often, women get caught up taking care of their children, spouses and parents to the detriment of their own health.

“Take time out for you,” Pinnix-Ragland said. “The truth is they need us and we need ourselves.”

Women need to plan in order to sustain their futures, to accomplish their own goals and to be the support other women need to move up the latter as well. However, women must have a solid foundation. That is different for each person; for Pinnix-Ragland, she stands solidly on her faith.

Taking her own advice, Pinnix-Ragland has been the solid ground for others trying to better themselves. She has helped several students through college.

The most important advice, Pinnix-Ragland said, is staying true to yourself. Jeopardizing honesty and integrity can be risky business, sometimes even costing someone her career.

Also, Pinnix-Ragland said it is important to remember that work should be fun.

“Don’t allow anyone to destroy your joy,” she said.

The Garner Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business luncheon was hosted by the Rand-Bryan House and sponsored by Progress Energy.