Sometimes being a strong and single woman can be associated with negative connotations making it hard to attempt to be one. Being independent and single means not having to bite your tongue for anyone, being able to stand on your own feet and knowing what you want out of life, which could include career, personal or relationship goals.
Believe it or not women are innately strong, but we are influenced by media and others to behave otherwise. Here are a few tips to follow to become that strong woman that you were born to be:
1. Manage finances responsibly. The number one way to be strong and single is knowing how to take care of yourself financially without relying on other people. Keep track of all expenses and make sure that bills are paid before splurging on that new cardigan you had your eye on. If this is something that you have trouble with start by making a list. Prioritize your spending and learn the difference between necessities and luxuries.
2. Be you, not them. One of the worse things you can do is compare yourself to other women. Jealousy is natural to a degree, but when you begin to compare yourself to every female that comes your way, then you have a problem. We live in a society today where we have more insecure women than secure ones because of what is perceived in the media.
3. Be your own fashionista! Being strong and single means you should know how to express yourself freely. Fashion can be used to express your taste, mood that day and overall creativity. Wear what makes you comfortable and what you think looks great on you. Don’t force yourself to keep up with certain trends. You can be fashion-forward, but try to put your own spin on it.
4. What’s love got to do with it? Being in a relationship should not be what you base your happiness on! Don’t get me wrong being in a relationship can boost your mood, but it shouldn’t define your outlook on life. Before getting into a relationship learn how to make yourself happy. You may be in a relationship already but remember things can go bad at anytime. Knowing yourself allows you to land on your feet after a nasty breakup.
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5. Protect yourself. Being strong and single means you have to know how to protect yourself at all times. You never know when you’ll be in a situation where a man will be a little too “friendly” and you have to set him straight. Being in college, you definitely have to be careful. Carry pepper spray or a pocket knife at all times. You may also want to look into taking a self defense class, which brings me to my next point.
6. Stay informed. Being educated is not only a way to be more independent, but to be more respected and attractive! There is nothing more than beautiful than an educated, strong woman. The more educated you are the further you will go career and personal wise. An education doesn’t always have to come from an institution—keep up with current events, read a book, watch documentaries, etc.
7. Stand up for YOU at all times. Everyone knows what it feels like to be taken advantage of and it is not a good feeling. Know your rights. Don’t be afraid to speak your mind. If you know a situation isn’t right at work, school, or socially, fix it. Letting people disrespect you can bring down your confidence and take you on a downward spiral.
8. Your body is a temple, respect it. A good way to stay focused on improving yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally is by maintaining a balanced diet and exercising daily. Not only does practicing being healthy keep you fit, it keeps you busy. Focusing on a goal such as getting in shape keeps your mind off negative thoughts. Try exercising everyday for at least 30 minutes—take a walk, jog, or a bike ride, anything that gets your body moving is good.
9. Have a heart and give back. Giving to others can be a rewarding experience. Even if you believe you don’t have much as it is, remember, there is always someone less fortunate than you. Being in college there is a plethora of volunteering opportunities available. Figure out what causes your passionate about and look into organizations that cater to that cause. If you don’t have enough time to volunteer, practice random acts of kindness. If you see someone in need, help them out.
10. Fill your schedule! Being strong and single, you should know how to multi-task. Don’t over schedule yourself, but fill your schedule enough to be well-rounded and not focused on being a single lady.
Keep a positive attitude in everything you do. If you’re newly single, it shouldn’t be hard to bounce back. People come and go every day, and by practicing these steps will be a great way to come back a stronger and better you.