You probably scroll past 100 inspirational memes per day. You know the type — motivating, upbeat, reassuring you that you are enough. Why is content like this so common? Why is it so necessary?
Because women just like you experience a host of trials and challenges every day. We are pulled in a million personal, relational, and occupational directions all the time.
But it’s more than that. Even into the 21st century, women are too often relegated to society’s second-class status. Moreover, you can feel the pressure to adhere to body and beauty images that constantly leave you feeling insecure. In addition, trying to manage expectations and a host of roles and challenges.
Women’s Issues in 2021
According to a recent survey, about eight out of 10 women believe they’re “not good enough.” We feel self-doubt, we feel overwhelmed, and we feel disrespected. This situation does not occur without context. Here are just some of the many unique challenges a woman may face in 2021:
- Female-specific health issues
- Domestic violence
- Abusive relationships
- Juggling job and family responsibilities
- Sexual harassment
- Unequal pay
- Unequal opportunities to advance
- Strict gender roles
- Codependency
- Menopause
- Pregnancy
- Societal beauty and body standards
I could go on and on but you get the idea and likely live many of these issues now. There is no shame if a woman questions her own worth, So many long-standing factors point us in that precise direction. Progress has been made. Still, it is crucial that you take some intentional steps to protect your mental and emotional health.
5 Ways to Recognize That You Are Enough
1. You Can Cut Yourself Some Serious Slack
When certain cultural dynamics are lined up against you, it’s just not fair to blame yourself for everything. Give yourself a break. You are not uniquely flawed. You are a woman in a society that often undervalues women. That is not your fault.
2. You Set Your Own Standards
You are free to set your own standards. Don’t let the media or your news feed decide what’s best for you.
You are enough means that you were made to be you, as you are, on purpose. You can grow and evolve change without trying to prove yourself to anyone. Self-acceptance is the key to setting personal standards that are meaningful and fulfilling.
You know you’re enough when you are less focused on meeting someone else’s ideas of worthiness and feel comfortable being your authentic self.
3. You’ve Learned How to Say No
Setting boundaries is a major step on the path to “enough.” Practice saying no when you mean no. Learn to enforce those boundaries without guilt or shame. There will be many times when you are made to feel too pushy or bossy. That is patriarchy and insecurity speaking. Shut down unhelpful self-talk and mindfully choose a self-nurturing path forward.
4. Your Support Network is Active and Trustworthy
There is never a shortage of talk about the virtues of individualism. In reality, it’s a myth. Success — in any form and at any level — is a team effort. Create a support system of like-minded, trustworthy women who will be there in good times and bad. There is power in collective action when your confidence falters.
5. You Practice Daily Self-Care
Self-esteem begins with self-care. Committing to a self-care regimen serves as a daily reminder that YOU are worth the effort. Some basics to keep in mind:
- Stress management and relaxation techniques
- Maintaining a regular sleep routine
- Daily exercise and activity
- Making healthy eating choices
Counseling For Women
I invite you to explore the world of counseling. This important step can help you:
- Increase your self-esteem
- Identify strengths
- Discover a sense of purpose
- Increase confidence
- Break destructive cycles
- Set healthy boundaries
- Become more resilient
- Expand your support network
- Realize your power as a woman
Do you still have questions about counseling for women? I invite you to call for a consultation. I’m happy to discuss your specific needs and answer any questions you have about women’s counseling and my practice.
