I’ve never intentionally set out to be a strong woman, I think in many ways I’m naturally strong, but I’ve also gained fortitude through some of the experiences I’ve had to endure through the course of my life. However, I am opinionated, not afraid to stand up and do what’s right, stay true to who I am and I’m vocal about my beliefs. This has a tendency to rub people the wrong way.

Marilyn Monroe said it best, “Strong women don’t have ‘attitudes’ we have standards.” I absolutely believe it’s the truth. I also like to quote, “I have the simplest tastes. I am always satisfied with the best.”

I’ve come up with a recipe I hope will help connect you with your strength:

Recipe for a Strong Woman

1. She knows who she is.
   1. She knows what she wants for herself.
   2. She follows her heart.
   3. She honors her instincts.
2. She stands up for herself.
   1. She is not afraid to share her thoughts and ideas with others.
   2. She respects herself, the causes she supports and the welfare of others.
3. She finds joy.
   1. She finds something to be grateful for each day.
   2. She strives to make a positive and loving environment for her family.
   3. She lives fully, loves hard, and laughs loudly.
4. She challenges herself.
   1. She continues to put one foot in front of the other – even on the hard days.
   2. She confronts difficulties and learns from new opportunities.
   3. She admits she doesn’t have all the answers and is willing to learn and grow.

I’ll be the first to admit, it’s not easy being a strong woman. Most people – even a lot of other women – don’t quite know what to do with us. They feel the need to degrade, minimize and otherwise marginalize us. They feel threatened by our outspoken nature and feel the need to try and bat us back into place. Remember: a successful woman is one who can build a firm foundation out of bricks others have thrown at her.