OUTFIT DETAILS
Fleurette Placket Front Wool Car Coat | Eliza J Lace Sheath Dress | M. Gemi Esatto Pumps | Chloe Nile Crossbody Bag | Prada Sunglasses | Nars Lippencil (Cruella) |
Strong Women Lift Those Around Them
I write today’s post with a heavy heart, as I found out just before I started to write this that a woman I work with closely died suddenly and unexpectedly. It was such a shock and so unexpected that I haven’t completely processed how it happened, but in the coming days I’m sure I will. More than anything I feel horrible for her husband and young children, as suddenly three people are faced with the prospect of no longer having their mom, and her husband is now a widow. This happening makes me even more resolute to write today’s post as events like this are even more a reason why the world needs strong women.
I originally decided to write and publish this post to recognize the 117 women who were just inaugurated to Congress (and 127 women now serve – a record)! These women are such an inspiration to the world, and they are a testament to what happens when women choose to lift each other up for support. So often women who are strong are looked down upon, and are criticized just for being a woman. This is so far from the truth! When a woman is confident and sure of herself, she doesn’t need others for reassurance. And a strong woman will work to support other women. They are role models for their colleagues, for their friends, and especially their children. A strong woman will be a magnet for others too! We can do a lot on our own, but we can do so much more when we work together!
Strong Women Are Free To Express Who They Are
I can remember when I was younger, I didn’t want people to know I was smart. I never thought of myself as beautiful. Love was something I thought I was not worthy of receiving. But as I went to college and became a doctor twice, that all changed. In college, as I found more like-minded people I blossomed and even thrived, and I wasn’t afraid to show who I really was and who I wanted to become. As I became stronger I felt the freedom to express who I really am. It took a very long time, but I am eternally grateful for that change. When a strong woman is secure in their principles and their moral compass, it becomes much easier to be the best version of themselves. There is no need to “act like a man” or to “tone it down just to be successful”. Women have done that for far too long and it needs to stop!
Strong Women Can Be Firm Yet Gentle
A strong woman is both kind and firm. Someone with an authoritarian style lacks kindness. Someone who is too permissive lacks firmness. Yet by incorporating both kindness and firmness, the result you get is positive discipline. When you are kind, you are showing consideration and being respectful. By being firm, you are showing respect for yourself and the situation. When you are firm yet gentle you validate the other’s feelings, yet you recognize the need for your own well being as well. This is a classic discipline method for kids, but it is just as true for adults. And a good leader knows how to implement this philosophy to guide and teach others.
Strong Women Know To Be Humble
A strong woman has just the right combination of confidence and humility. When I think of great leaders of our time they knew to be sure of themselves, but they also knew when to admit mistakes. When you are humble, you are truly free from arrogance and pride. And it opens the door to constant learning and betterment of yourself. The mark of a good leader (who is confident and humble) is someone who can influence, inspire and educate!
Strong Women Are A Gift To The World
When a woman displays all the traits of strength, she is confident, kind, firm, and she is free to be who she really is. And when a woman is strong, she builds up those around her, and her strength is infectious. She is unstoppable. Women are not weaker because of their femininity, rather it is an asset. The more strong women we have in this world, the more the world becomes a better place!
What do you consider to be traits of a strong woman? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
xo | April
Follow The Blue Hydrangeas on:
wonderful post, we for sure need more strong women!-So sorry for your loss!
Thank you Margie <3
So very sorry for your loss – what a sad shock for you and all who loved her. It’s been interesting to me to watch a sort of shift happening among women… maybe it’s my own aging. Where years ago, it felt like women and girls were compelled to compete and shun and fear being shunned, now it seems like there’s a change in the tide. Now, so many women are seeing the value of creating a world where we can be ourselves – our strong selves. It’s a beautiful thing!
So glad you are seeing this transformation Susan!
I’m so sorry to hear about your friend. Loss is never easy. But I agree, it’s so important to lift up other women. We are all strong in our own ways. My dad always taught me to be confident, even when I’m not feeling it, and it’s helped me so much in life!
Thank you Stephanie! And so glad to hear how your dad raised you!
Yes girl yes!!!! It’s time to embrace being strong women, and show the world that it’s ok. My 5 year old is a future female Congress woman or president because she is extremely strong willed. Some people comment on how I should tone it down, instead I encourage it,
Thank you Kayla!
STOP.IT. This outfit is SO CUTE. First I loved the coat, and then the dress!
Thank you Krysten!
I think one of the most important qualities you mentioned is humility. Through your confidence, when humility shines, it’s so inspiring and relatable for others to look up to you.
I couldn’t agree with you more Katrina!
I love EVERYTHING about this outfit. That dress is stunning. That jacket is amazing!
This has been a beautiful read. I agree with all of what’s written. The world needs more strong women.
Thank you Wendy!
So sorry to hear about your loss… I agree that we definitely need more strong women so that we can lift each other up and also to inspire the next generation to be the same.
I love it! Its so daring and sleek! I could wear that out or to work.
Thanks Lauren!
I’m so sorry for your loss – and missed the memo that it was 117/127 women now in Congress – that is so impressive! Yay! As for my “strong woman” quality, I’d say, not afraid to stand up/speak up for herself – a trait I’ve been proud to notice my 9yo daughter exhibiting recently in challenging situations w/school friends. I am so proud of her, and tell her so!
I just love this ❤️ This dress pretty
Thank you!
I love all your tips about what strong women ought to be… We all have some of those strengths and working for the rest is imperative. Happy 2019!
Was looking for some takes regarding this topic and I found your article quite informative. It has given me a fresh perspective on the topic tackled. Thanks!
Please check out also my blog, relevant to yours:What is a Strong Woman
Have a nice day!
Thank you!