If you think you are not in a position of power, I encourage you to think again.
True power comes from within.
I can only hope that once you find your power, you can use it for good. (Let's not get into people in positions of power that completely abuse them, now).
So... how can you find your power?
Here are 10 ways you can connect to the power within you and own it.
1. Declare What You Want
Put aside that pressure of others telling you what they think you should do. What is it that YOU want to do? What are your ambitions?
Even if you don't completely know the end goal at this moment, you may have some idea in which direction you want to go. Make it real by declaring it. Say it loud, and say it proud!
2. Advocate for Yourself and Others
Recognize your own value and accomplishments, because no one is going to do it for you. Then, maybe you can help others along the way in recognizing theirs. You know how hard it can be yourself. ;)
3. Acknowledge Your Fears
Sure, fear does have the power to consume you—but that is only if you let it. You're not going to get rid of them overnight, either.
You must first acknowledge that they're there, and then begin to face them, one step at a time. It's a pain in the ass, I know, but it's worth it.
30 years later, I am finally facing my fear of spiders. Would I much rather run from them? Fuck yes (and I still very much do at times). But I know that fear exists, and I'm working on it, I swear.
4. Replace the Negative Self-Talk with Positive Affirmations
Try not to give those negative thoughts so much room in your head, you don't have to sabotage yourself. You'll find that they're only holding you back from action, taking risks and sharing what you have to offer.
Nothing beats knowing and telling yourself exactly what you need to hear, when you need to hear it. If you need a sample of a love letter to yourself, check out the one I wrote here.
5. Take a Moment to Pause
Oh, the idea that we must be productive at all times of the day, constantly bombarding ourselves with new information, and only being able to reward ourselves once we've got A,B, all the way through Z crossed off our to-do list for the day. (The thought of having 26 tasks on your daily list everyday is daunting! I don't wish that on anyone.)
Schedule some time in that "busy" calendar of yours to just be. Unplug yourself. That twitch you feel in your thumbs to go check for the next update is just a sign that you've needed this break a looong time ago. Don't open that app, throw away that phone! (You can get it back later, I promise).
6. Practice Self-Care
Taking care of yourself gives yourself the energy to fuel yourself and your power. What do you need from yourself in order to replenish your mind, body and soul?
Try out a few things you're interested in, whether it's yoga, dancing, journaling, a massage, the possibilities are endless! Whatever it is you choose, make sure to schedule some time for it throughout your day or week.
7. Build your Support Squad
Surround yourself with some bad-ass individuals, such as yourself. Cherish your great friends, look for mentors, find role models, maybe see a therapist...
Find those who genuinely want you to succeed, and can help push you further.
8. Ask for Help
We for damn sure don't have all the answers, and there's no shame in asking for help when you need it. There's power in admitting this and then lining yourself up with the tools and resources to get the help you need.
9. Speak Up
I don't know about you, but it feels like I have a million thoughts and ideas constantly running through my brain at any given moment. Are all of them worth pursuing? Hell no! I'd go mad if I even tried (and yes, I have tried many, many times).
Just sharing your thoughts, ideas, and opinions is is pretty damn brave if you ask me, regardless of what the outcome may be. You never know who is listening and what you can learn.
10. Stay Curious
Be open to learning new things and even unlearning old behaviors or ideas. Listen to others who have different perspectives and experiences than your own. You may not become an expert, but just having that willingness to learn is powerful in itself.
Good luck on your journey to find your power.
