First and foremost, I will begin by acknowledging that I am an extremely blessed individual. I have been raised by a long line of badass women. I could not have asked for better role models to look up to throughout my life.

We all face trials and tribulations in our lives. We encounter bosses that belittle us and make us question our capacity for success. Boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands and wives may beat the crap out of us and tear to pieces every ounce of our self-worth. Friends may become enemies and bring you to second guess every relationship you have and every person you let into your precious life. You may be controlled by things instead of people like financial distress or substance abuse.

Do you know the only positive part out of all of those experiences? Strength. Every scar that you obtain in your lifetime, whether it physical or emotional, bears a story, a lesson and a sign of strength. If you can make it through an awful experience where someone or something is telling you in some capacity that you are not good enough, then you have shown strength.

You have to learn from your experiences. You have to define your self-worth and understand all that you deserve out of life. No one deserves to be a slave to a person or a thing. Once you find the power and strength to demand proper treatment and control of your life, you have stumbled upon an invaluable lesson.

Women are socially deemed as delicate and submissive creatures. While femininity is nothing to be ashamed of, the strength of a woman’s head and heart should never be doubted. Every person is capable of overcoming their own barriers to achieve their own goals and aspirations. Finding the key to unlock your personal door to victory may take support, time, self-exploration and more obstacles. But, once you find that key you are unstoppable.

“Strong Women. Let us meet them, be them and raise them.” It’s important to inspire other women to find their keys as well as surround yourself with strong women that help you to discover your own. Never underestimate the power of example and how your actions can influence how another person chooses to lead their life. This is especially important in the realm of raising daughters. It is important to equip them with a mindset that will allow them to face any barriers that they encounter with grace and strength.