Traits of a Strong Woman: According to a Girl Trying to be One

My mom is definitely the biggest super hero in my life. She literally can do it all AND has time for naps. This is the first year I’m not with my mom on Mother’s Day and it has really had me thinking about how grateful and awestruck I am by my mom and all of the other influential women in my life. I am always learning from these women, whether it be beauty tips, financial tips, a history lesson or a dating tip, they all teach me something.

So, ladies, this one’s for you.

Always speak your mind:

Thank you, Titi Liz for teaching me this important trait at such a young age. I know Erin and I would always giggle in the back seat because of how unapologetic you were with your words, yet, there was something so empowering, that left me wondering. Although, I am nowhere near as outspoken as you, I always try to channel your strength when I need to stand up for myself.

Invest in good products:

To my Auntie Bea, I am grateful for teaching me the importance of investing time and/or money in the things I care about. Whether it be a good quality face cream to get a head start on wrinkles or a person I love, you have taught me to invest in the things that are truly important to me.

Save, when you can:

As important as it is to spend a little extra on the things that matter, remember to save for a rainy day. Whether it be making your own coffee at home or clipping coupons, I am thankful for my Titi Sophie for teaching me to always be cognizant of my finances and think about the future.

Have faith:

Having faith in God and to trust in his plan. To be thankful for every single breath and for each and every day. You do not have to have all of the answers, but so as long as you know that God will provide, you will be okay. Thank you, Grandma, for teaching me the importance of trusting in God.

Be passionate:

If you have a positive outlook on life and are grateful for all of the blessings, (good and bad) you will never have a bad day. Love deeply and never be afraid to show it. Thank you, Nana, for never being embarrassed to share your love, dance in the middle of a room, ask for help when you need it and for showing me how to enjoy every single day.

Do not be afraid to walk alone:

Ever since your girls were little, you always told us to follow our own path, to f**k what everyone else was doing, because at the end of the day, we could only be held accountable for ourselves (and to you… but that’s beside the point). Being independent has been one of the values I am most proud of, and I attribute that all to you. You have taught me to only do things that make me happy and to never be afraid to say no. Thank you, mama for raising us to be strong.

Be educated:

My Abuela instilled in her girls that education was the most powerful tool we could possess. Finishing high school, pursing a degree and then having a career of our own, was something not even debated. Thank you, Abuela, for teaching all of your girls the importance of being educated and investing in ourselves.

Remember your roots:

I’ve never met a girl squad as tight knit as my fathers’ sisters. My three Titi’s have taught me the importance of remembering who has been there for you from the start, and that blood is always thicker than water. Your family, more importantly, your girls are your number one supporters and will be there, with you, through thick and thin.

To all of the other women in my life that I could write a whole book about, thank you. Thank you for all that you teach me and every other girl you come across. Thank you for teaching us to be strong, to be unafraid, to be unique and to stand together.

Happy Mother’s Day to my mommy.

Love,

Jamie

Embracing Every Step