I wanted to make this list because Trump. Because the patriarchy. Because rape culture. Because internalized misogyny. Because I can’t neatly sort these things into causes vs. symptoms. Because I don’t need a reason to write this article, because women deserve and need to feel more empowerment. Empower yourself by empowering others, empower others by setting an example of self-empowerment. Here is a list of small ways to remind yourself that you are in control of your body and your life, that you make the rules, and that you are strong, capable, and worthy. You are cause for celebration.
1. Go to the movies by yourself.
2. Ditch your bra (if you wear one).
3. Take a break from makeup (if it’s even part of your routine).
4. Take a break from shaving (if it’s even part of your routine).
5. Do your makeup in whatever way makes you feel special.
6. Take selfies.
7. Do some loving-kindness meditation.
8. Journal.
9. Write or call your senators.
10. Take a personal day to treat yourself.
11. Take a self defense course.
12. Let someone know if they do or say something that makes you feel uncomfortable.
13. Do something outside of your comfort zone (on your own terms).
14. Learn to make something with your hands.
15. Cook yourself a nice meal.
16. Set goals for the future.
17. Go to the gym.
18. Go to a new yoga class.
19. Make a plan for saving money.
20. Do something nice for your parents.
21. Learn how to fix something of yours that needs fixing.
22. Watch Moana.
23. Make an empowerment playlist.
24. Go out and dance with your friends.
25. Apply for something.
26. Watch She’s the Man.
27. Write thank-you letters to the people in your life that deserve them.
28. Read up on current events.
29. VOTE (and be an educated voter!!).
30. Pot/plant your own flowers or vegetables.
31. Read feminist poetry (ex: Maya Angelou).
32. Write feminist poetry.
33. Listen to India.Arie.
34. Read up on the life and times of RBG (or your favorite feminist icon).
35. Make art.
36. Paint your nails.
37. Watch a documentary or listen to a podcast on something that interests you.
38. Work your ass off in school.
39. Talk openly about your sexuality (if you feel safe doing so).
40. Do your research and invest in companies that reflect your values.
41. Make an ambitious to-do list for the day and stay focused.
42. Speak up in classes or in meetings.
43. Set clear, reasonable boundaries.
44. Wear your favorite outfit.
45. Volunteer in your community.
46. Donate unused items.
47. Get a haircut.
48. Watch Mulan.
49. Call your grandmother and ask her what she does to feel empowered.
50. Ask for help if and when you need it.
Empowerment can also come from deeply personal places. You know yourself best, so if this list doesn’t resonate, the real takeaway is to make space in your life to recognize how powerful and wonderful you are.
Image Credit: Featured Image, 1, 2, 3