December is a stressful time; between buying gifts, studying for finals, and the daily struggle of getting out of bed. Whenever I’m feeling uninspired or hopeless, the empowering words of strong women help to boost me up. Maybe it’s the writer in me, but bold words make me believe that I can do anything. Whether you’re stressing about work or school right now, here are twelve feminist mantras to get you through the cold month of December.
Gloria Steinem’s words on the importance of being independent:
1. “Far too many people are looking for the right person, instead of trying to be the right person.” ~ Gloria Steinem
One of my favorite quotes about the importance of intersectional feminism:
2. “I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own.” ~ Audre Lorde
A new way to describe women as our heroes:
3. “How important it is for us to recognize and celebrate our heroes and she-roes!” ~ Maya Angelou
A modern quote by a powerhouse woman:
4. “A woman with a voice is, by definition, a strong woman.” ~ Melinda Gates
One of the original feminists is still relevant today:
5. “There never will be complete equality until women themselves help to make laws and elect lawmakers.” ~ Susan B. Anthony
Words of inspiration from a Nobel Prize winner:
6. “We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.” ~ Malala Yousafzai
A legend speaking the truth:
7. “I’m tough, ambitious, and I know exactly what I want. If that makes me a bitch, okay.” ~ Madonna
Another oldie but still important quote to remember:
8. “I do not wish women to have power over men; but over themselves.” ~ Mary Wollstonecraft
The quote that embodies female strength:
9. “It takes a certain grace, strength, intelligence, fearlessness, and the nerve to never take no for an answer.” ~ Rihanna
Madeleine Albright speaks to staying motivated because we’ve already come so far:
10. “It took me quite a long time to develop a voice, and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent.” ~ Madeleine Albright
A queen in her own right:
11. “We need to reshape our own perception of how we view ourselves. We have to step up as women and take the lead.” ~ Beyoncé
Ending on a funny high note:
12. “No woman gets an orgasm from shining the kitchen floor.” ~ Betty Friedan