Strong as a Mother

I've been thinking a lot about strength this week. It's showing up in all areas of my life and whenever that happens, I consider it a sign that I should pay attention.

"Strong opinions, loosely held." - used to explain what I might expect from a senior leader.

"Strength training is the most important health change a woman can make." - advice on my eternal quest to navigate perimenopause.

"We are stronger together." - rallying women to band together around the cause of saving our country.

"I'm not sure I'm strong enough to handle this." - an honest sentiment from a friend going through a hard time.

What has me thinking is that in spite of the common trope that women are weak, it's never been something that's been a barrier for me. In fact, depicting strength is more of an over-used skill that often hides where I'm feeling "less-than."

At my best, I might be seen as strong. My entrepreneurial career bolstered my grit, independence and risk-taking from an early age. These are all qualities I'm extremely proud of and for the most part, they serve me well.

However, at my worst I am seen as over-bearing. Whether it's a topic I'm passionate about, an injustice I've witnessed, or someone doing anything remotely harmful to my kids, look out.

It's why my, "Strong as a Mother" shirt is among my favorites.

But strength is more than being Mama Bear.

• It's being last to speak, creating space to others to show up.

• It's cheering someone on who's trying something for the first time, even if you know you can do it better yourself.

• It's softening to receive support from others because just because you CAN do it all, doesn't mean you should.

• It's maintaining an open mind and heart, even and especially when tough times or people are coming at you.

As we navigate challenging times, individually and collectively, I wonder what outcomes might be better if we were to take a both/and approach...

I, for one, think I would be able to take much needed, deliberate exhale.