Nowadays, society holds women to high standards of beauty and fitness, and while this will probably never change, it is important for young women to aspire to be more than simply “pretty” or “skinny”. It is always important for girls to remember that there are so many more things about yourself that make you who you are, and to me, being noticed for these characteristics is worth so much more than being noticed as the “pretty girl."
1. Humble
Everyone loves a hard worker with a humble attitude. And while this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t flaunt your successes from time to time, I believe trying to be humble in most situations is best. Being humble is a trait I look up to in people, and I hope for other people to view me in this way.
2. Bold
Being bold is something that I have always strived for- to always stand up for what you believe in, even if it means standing alone.
3. Brave
Don’t be afraid to follow your heart, wherever it takes you. Be brave in every situation, and face your fears with courage. Being brave has its own meaning to everyone; in my opinion, being brave is challenging yourself in every situation- a trait I hope to accomplish in everything I do.
4. Athletic
As I was growing up, I devoted countless hours to sporting practices and games. Through all the workouts, this led to me having an athletic body type, with fuller thighs and broader shoulders. I would have rather been called strong, fast, or fit over skinny any day.
5. Strong
Many people witness struggles in their day to day life, and overcoming these all while still keeping a positive attitude is, in part, what makes you strong. This characteristic is one that I strive to accomplish every day; whether it be a small bump in the road or a life changing obstacle, being strong in the face of adversities is a trait I hope to encompass.
6. Positive
I want to be known as the girl that puts a smile on other people’s faces. Although this is a trait I sometimes struggle with, it is a trait I look up to in other people, and something I strive for.
7. Kind
I think it goes without saying that most women strive to be known as kind. Without a doubt, I would rather have others know me as the “kind girl” rather than the “pretty girl”.
8. Driven
As do most college women, I have many hopes and dreams as to my future.
To be driven is to have the world at your feet; there is nothing a woman cannot accomplish when she has the drive and dedication to take her there. I only hope to encompass this drive in everything I do.
9. Intelligent
Throughout high school, I often heard people say “I didn’t even know she was smart” when I received college acceptances or academic awards. Don’t get me wrong, I’m definitely not the smartest person in the room, but it was offensive to be told by your peers that you “didn’t look smart." This is something women have been fighting for for ages, and as a college student, I would much rather have someone notice when I receive an A on a test rather than when I curl my hair.
10. Loyal
I have always tried to be a good friend to my peers, and I pride myself in being loyal and trustworthy to my friends. In my opinion, I would treasure a friend referring to me as loyal to the highest degree.
11. Sincere
This word truly encompasses how I want to be viewed. I believe that all other characteristics play a part into making me the best version of myself, however, that being sincere ties everything together.
So, girls, this isn’t to say that you shouldn’t buy those jeans that make you look amazing. Always flaunt what makes you feel beautiful, whether it be that new top, or your bold attitude. Be brave, be kind, and there is nothing you cannot accomplish.
