She's ambitious and hard-working, yet well-rounded and down to earth. She's accomplished but she's modest, and she's just yet forgiving. Her actions align with her priorities, and she's intentional -- never haphazard. She knows that her identity is not something she is born with, but rather something she creates. She's content with having less of the little things, but thirsts for growth and meaning. She is the girl who thrives.
The girl who thrives:
1. Adapts well to change.
She knows that not everything in life goes exactly as planned, and she's capable of thinking on her feet. When circumstances aren’t as desirable as they had once been, she doesn’t sulk in the past. Rather, she changes the present -- be it her circumstances or her outlook -- to improve the situation and move forward.
2. Embraces failure.
She understands that sometimes you learn best when you learn the hard way. She knows that failure only translates to defeat if you leave the situation without taking new knowledge from it, so she always reflects on what has happened and why. Since some of her biggest periods of growth in life have been the result of failure, she no longer fears messing up.
3. Recognizes the lesson to be learned.
She knows there is a lesson to be learned in every life encounter. She is exceptional at determining what the lesson is in any given situation, and because of this she is constantly learning. Additionally, she understands the value that comes with each of these lessons. Whether she is dealing with a difficult person and learning a lesson in patience, or struggling with an assignment and learning a lesson in perseverance and self-discipline, a thriving girl’s recognition of the situation’s value allows her to appreciate both the highs and lows in life.
4. Knows when to say "no."
She realizes you don’t have to do everything to be accomplished, and opts instead for excelling thoroughly at that which she commits to. She knows when to look out for herself, and gives rest the priority it deserves. She never lets guilt drag her into saying yes and putting herself in a position she does not want to be in.
5. And when to say "yes."
While she knows when to say no, she also does not let fear or inhibitions keep her from saying yes to an experience worth having, nor does she let them keep her from acting in a way that may be inconvenient but proper. She flourishes when out of her comfort zone and is ready to adapt to any new situation. She also always puts ethics ahead of her own comfort and gain. Whether it’s taking a new job or helping a stranger in need, she is inclined to step up and embrace what's ahead.
6. Is humble.
She knows that pride can take down a man faster than any wound or illness. While she is confident in her abilities and constantly striving to accomplish something more, she maintains an appreciation for the people and circumstances who helped her get to where she is. She is more interested in the world around her than in the world within her.
7. Does not self-pity.
She never calls or considers herself a victim, and and she certainly does not relinquish ownership of her life to other people or circumstances. She knows drawbacks are not cause to surrender, and acknowledges that because everyone is fighting his or her own battle, her hardships do not make her unique.
8. Has empathy for others.
She is capable of putting herself in someone else’s shoes and comprehending why they are feeling or acting a certain way. She is respectful of the fact that she does not know the details of everyone’s story and gives the benefit of the doubt whenever possible. Her ability to understand and forgive others allows her to show compassion and respond rationally to any and all situations.
9. Isn’t distracted.
She is artful at clearing her mind of clutter and focusing on what matters. She lives in the moment, parting from the present only to learn from the past or plan for the future. She knows how to spend her money or, more importantly, how to save. You won’t see her draining her time on social media or petty drama.
10. Sets goals.
While she is skilled at living in the moment, she is just as adept at looking ahead to plan for her future. She understands that the reward of holding out for something can often far outweigh the benefits of immediate gratification. Since she is acutely aware of her identity, she is easily able to determine what she hopes to accomplish. She decides what she wants to achieve and then commits herself to bringing her goals to fruition.
11. And wakes up with a plan.
She does not hesitate to get her feet wet. With a strong grasp on what she wants to accomplish, she figures out exactly how she wants to get there. No dilly-dallying for her, as time is of the essence. She makes optimal use of her day, her resources, and her connections to achieve with flying colors that which she sets out to do.
12. Wears a smile.
Finally, she maintains an optimistic outlook on life. While she appreciates sunshine for its warmth and vitamin D, she also welcomes rain for the life it brings to her surroundings. She knows that her attitude takes her further than her circumstances, and that sometimes things are simply out of her control. In most times of trial, she would much prefer to laugh it off then dwell on misfortune. She chooses to be happy and show gratitude, and this in turn makes her environment more cheerful. Her positivity not only makes herself feel better, but it also inspires others to be in good spirits.
