We’re celebrating National Women History Month in March and today is International Women’s Day, and I can’t remember a time in my life when I’ve felt so proud and optimistic about being a woman.
Over the years I have admired women whom I think personify and exhibit an attitude and strong belief in their lovability, self-confidence and a strong sense of self despite the many challenges and obstacles they faced. Some of the women who have helped to push forward the fight for the empowerment of women and have truly inspired me are Louisa May Alcott, Charlotte and Emily Bronte, Queen Elizabeth I, Coco Chanel and Oprah Winfrey.
All of these women overcame adversity, challenged social norms and broke down barriers. They’re all true to their authenticity, are passionate, driven and inspiring. They cared about the people they love but did not let what people thought about them dampen their desire to fulfill their dreams. I call this characteristic defiant resilience.
I would be misrepresenting myself to say I’ve ever been a staunch feminist or activist. However, I am a strong woman and believe that as human beings we rightfully should be treated equally, equitably, economically, physically and socially. I marched for my unborn daughter once when I was in college and marched with her when she was an adolescent. Together we shared the powerful feelings of positivity, sense of empowerment, hope, and unity of being among so many women from all cultures and walks of life. However, marching is a momentary experience and just one way to collectively raise our voices.
I think our biggest challenge is to empower ourselves in our everyday lives, take better care of ourselves, increase our sense of personal power and focus on what we can control. This month as we pay homage to our history and ongoing struggles, I wanted to share a few ways that I hope will help you feel more self-empowered:
- Make a pact to commit to value yourself the way you believe you deserve to be valued.
- Don’t look to the outside world for the reinforcement and reassurance of your worth.
- Look within yourself to develop a sense of your core value in the world and begin by believing that you are worth showering some of your own loving upon.
- Be true to your authenticity, drive, passions, and inspirations.
- Don’t let people’s perception of you dampen your desire to fulfill your dreams.
I believe that hope and love run deep within all of us. As we continue to love ourselves and join with each other, we can create a safe haven for our daughters when “No More,” truly exists.
Have you ever wondered how to get more out of life?
Well, now you don’t have to. After over 20 years of interactions with clients, Dr. Guttman developed the “Sustainable Life Satisfaction” series which assists individuals in believing in their personal effectiveness in the world.
Originally published on Thrive Global.