“A strong woman knows she has strength enough for the journey, but a woman of strength knows that it is in the journey where she will become strong.” ~ Luke Easter

I’ve been called a strong woman for most of my life.

But it’s taken me years of hard work to feel strong, successful, independent, and courageous.

Like many of us, my life had many ups and downs and wasn’t easy at times. It threw many challenges at me and presented me with painful endings that I couldn’t tolerate.

So many times I felt like I wasn’t myself—weak, afraid of tomorrow, and out of strength.

After a whole lot of trial and error, I realized that I needed to solve my problems on my own. Only we can help ourselves. People can support us and guide us, but when we suffer, only we know how deep the wound is. So I looked at my own pain and transformed it. I decided to create a new beginning without being dependent on others.

It was time to depend on my own self.

Sometimes, it’s not easy when our problems, negativity, and weakness stare us in the face, and all we have to tell them is that we are ready to fight this battle, even if it means more struggle.

I insisted on fighting this battle alone, and even if I were to fail, I vowed to be patient with myself, give her another chance, and help her stand up again. I learned how to give myself a helping hand and tap on my own shoulder and say, “Things will be okay.”

To be a woman is to have an endless tank of strength, and I’m using it now to connect with myself again. The journey begins when we choose to challenge ourselves and take the road less traveled.

Here’s how to become a strong woman who’s not afraid to tap into her infinite tank of power:

>> Your happiness exists at your core—it’s your essence. Happiness means strength, so appreciate what others give you, but don’t depend on them or anything to make you happy. You are already happy. Fill yourself with kindness and love so you get in touch with the endless joy within you.

>> Free yourself from the victim mentality—because you’re not a victim. You’re only a woman who’s been through a lot and who can get through all her troubles with willingness and faith.

>> Don’t let anything or anyone bring you down. Most importantly, don’t live someone else’s life.

>> Don’t be afraid to express your thoughts and emotions. Share your points of view with courage and confidence. Never be afraid to say the truth.

>> Look at your present and future—never the past. The only time you may look back is when you want to check how far you’ve come.

>> Free your mind from destructive thoughts and your heart from weary feelings—breathe, take a walk, read, exercise, spend time with your loved ones.

>> Don’t get stuck in labels—no one gets to define who you are but you.

Our journey might not be easy, but it’s the only way to win our most difficult battles.

You’re strong and you matter—trust in that.

~