Women are inherently strong. We are born to bear the difficulties of a monthly hormone roller coaster and the pain of childbirth. Over centuries we have fought for our rights: to be considered a person, to vote, to protect our health and reproductive rights, and our right to be treated as equals to men. Even now, in 2020, we are still fighting against ridiculous beauty standards, body shaming, double standards and wage gaps.
We all weather these storms, and yet some women seem to come out of them not unscathed, but even stronger, wiser, and more determined than before. All women have that power, but not all of us know how to harness it.
Thankfully, the way these seemingly magical women do that is no secret: we can all become stronger women despite the hardships life throws at us. This is how.
7 Ways to Become a Stronger Woman
1. Believe in Yourself
Though it sounds like something out of one of your favourite childhood films, there is much validity to it. No matter how many times other people tell you that you can do something – run a marathon, adopt a child, become CEO – it can only happen if you truly believe that you can do it. You may have to fake it at first, but eventually it will become your truth.
Try repeating this phrase every morning and before big or scary moments: “I am a strong woman. I can do anything I set my mind to. I will work hard and I will achieve my goals. I won’t let failure get me down. Instead I take it as a lesson and move forward.”
2. Know Your Worth
Know yourself: all of your strengths and weaknesses. Accept your flaws and don’t compare yourself to others. Instead, harness the power of the gifts you already have and work hard at the things you still need to learn. Most importantly, understand the value you bring to the table in every situation and never let anyone belittle you.
3. Learn from Pain and Failure
As already mentioned, a failure – though it may sting – is not a death sentence. It does not mean you give up. A failure is just a lesson. Take what you need from it and apply it to your next shot.
4. Don’t Fear Your Feelings
Having feelings and allowing yourself to feel them does not make you weak, it makes you brave. When emotion takes over, take some time to allow yourself to cry, to be angry. Vent to your sister, your mom, or your best friend. Once you’ve done that, do not wallow in those feelings. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and keep moving forward.
5. Don’t Seek Attention
Strong women don’t need attention, but they do demand respect. Understand the difference between the two. Most importantly, never chase after someone who does not give you the respect that you deserve. Know your worth and walk away.
6. Forgive
Life is hard enough without holding onto grudges and baggage against the people who have wronged you. While you do not need to necessarily forget when someone has wronged you, you can still choose to forgive them and let the situation lie. You do not need to waste emotional energy on it. Chin up and look forward – do not let old grudges and spite hold you down.
7. Be Honest
Be honest with yourself, with your coworkers, family, friends, and loved ones. Be truthful in how you are feeling. If you are overwhelmed at work, tell your boss. If you are feeling hurt by something a loved one did or said to you, tell them. If you think an important person in your life is making poor choices, talk to them. Most importantly, determine what your values and morals are and live by them. This honesty with yourself and others will help you feel lighter and keep your path clear.
Women are incredible beings. We deal with the pressures that society has placed on us with grace and beauty. Unfortunately our society continues to pit women against each other. Instead, we must celebrate other women. The more we support one another instead of tearing each other down, the closer we will come to true equality.