This week, I’ve been feeling really unmotivated and tired. I’m not sure if anyone else has been feeling the same, but I decided to find an animal to inspire me to get my energy back. This thought–along with the fact my roommates and I have been watching a lot of Disney movies lately–led me to think of lions, specifically, lionesses.
Lions are some of the best hunters in the wild. They are built to be excellent predators and they use all of their natural advantages to their fullest ability. These big cats can run up to 50 miles per hour, jump up to 36 feet, and have deadly claws. Although all lions have these abilities, female lions use them the most as they do close to 90% of the hunting for the pride. Lionesses are true “go-getters” that we can learn a lot from. They take care of themselves, get what they want, and use all of their natural talents to do it. As women, we should try to do this too. Don’t wait for other people to do what you’ve always wanted to do. Use your natural talents and passions to achieve your goals and dreams, no matter how big or small they are.
Lionesses also work as teams to hunt. If we work together and use our talents to help each other, we can go farther together. A lot of the time as women today, we are encouraged to compete with each other and feel like we have to prove we’re better instead of supporting and lifting each other up. So this week, try to encourage your girlfriends and support them instead of comparing yourself to them.
While I’ve spent a lot of this article talking about how lionesses can inspire us to work hard and get what we want, I think it’s important to remember that lions are also the laziest of the big cats. These massive symbols of strength and power sleep up to 20 hours a day and love being lazy and affectionate with their friends. I think this is proof that we can do great things and still need a break. In order to be successful, we also need to take care of ourselves. Rest and self care are just as important as schoolwork. If you need a day to recover, take it! There will still be time to achieve your goals and you’ll be more ready to take on life if you’re well rested. Remember your friends during your rest time too. Invite them to join. Maybe have a relaxing self care night with takeout and movies this weekend. Whatever you decide to do, just remember you have all the skills for greatness, so go for it!