I'm not about to burst into a verse from a Destiny's Child song, but they had a point. There's something empowering about being your own person, being a strong independent woman. Everyone has people in their lives they look up to, a hero, a guidepost by which you will compare your life. These people are often celebrities, sports stars, authors -- but sometimes we are lucky enough to have a hero living right in our own home.

Being raised around strong, independent women has made an incredible impact in my life. Seeing both my mother, and my aunt be successful in both their personal and professional lives has served as an inspiration, as motivation, and provided me with the determination I need to be the same way.

I'm not saying it is my goal to be single; I plan on getting married and having kids, but my role models have taught me that you don't need to be alone to be a strong independent woman. Being a strong, independent woman is about following your heart, and your gut, being brave in the face of adversity, and sticking to your principals. It has nothing to do with being by yourself. As strong independent women, we are never alone, We all have each other.

My mom and my aunt have taught me to handle each situation that comes my way with grace, and with dignity, and respect for myself. They helped me realize that strong people ask for help when they are weak, and that doesn't make them any less strong, or powerful, it just makes them smarter.

There are people in our lives who shape us, challenge us, and change the way we think. I wouldn't change the way I was raised for anything in the world. I'm lucky enough to love and be loved by two, real life heroes.