Is Being That Strong Woman Overrated?

Sis, I know you're tired.  You know you're tired, but it seems that no one else knows it.  Or maybe they know it and expect you to keep going anyway?  Let's talk about it.

Is being that "strong" woman overrated?

When did that happen?  When did it become more respected to be a strong woman that hides her insecurities, her fears and her doubts?  When were we involuntarily given that role and responsibility?

Sometimes I don't want to be revered as "her."  I want to be vulnerable, I want to cry, I want to have someone else take that burden and carry it for me.  Why is that less acceptable than it is for a woman to carry the weight of the world on her shoulders?  Supporting her man, her children, her job/career?  

Don't get me wrong, we can not and will not argue that there are several traits of being a strong woman that are indeed admirable and inspirational.  Explore chic wrote a great article on 11 Traits of a Strong Woman, Defined by Strong Women.

We love #5 that says "She doesn't see showing emotion as a weakness." This!! We need more of this.  Instead of always holding everything in and being on the edge of a nervous breakdown or about to burst, we need to know that it's ok to let that emotion out.  Express ourselves without fearing that we'd be looked at negatively for doing so.

Is that self love?

For me, it's not.  Self love is extremely important. It's an act of care to yourself and we all know how important it is to take care of ourselves.  Some people have said that we have to take care of ourselves so we can take care of or be there for others.  No! Take care of yourself so you can be there for yourself.  Sometimes we need to take selfish acts of care and not feel guilty about it.  I challenge you to start today.  Do one act every day that's just for you.  Whether it's

• Waking up 10 minutes early to watch the sunrise and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea alone.
• Cutting off the world to watch your favorite tv show or movie.
• Dedicating a few hours in the day to read a few chapters of a great book.
• Creating a fresh new look for yourself using your favorite makeup colors.
• Making a meal or a snack that's just for you.

What are some of your ways to show self love?  I'd love to read about them, leave a comment and let us know.