Authentic without Apology

I’m not for everyone. Nor are you. You don’t need to be someone who is. Actually if you’re “for everyone”, you have some soul-searching to do. You’re not meant to be for everyone. If you’re living authentically, you’re going to encounter many that will say, “she’s not for me.” And you know what? That’s okay. You will attract, serve, and impact those you are meant to be connected with and rejection, criticism, or other perceived negative reactions are really just part of the journey that leads you to where you should be and with whom.

It’s so easy to become or present yourself as someone that’s not truly you. How many women have you also heard say, “I’m not really sure who I am? “ We, as women, too often people-please or conform to what society says we should be. It’s easier to blend in, less stressful not to make anyone uncomfortable. But then what purpose does that serve for your greater good on this earth as well as for yourself? Bold and passionate actions with the accompanying spirit never proceeds quietly without contention or discourse.

March is International Women’s Month. A frequently cited quote used in celebration is “Well-behaved women rarely make history.” So as leaders, whether it’s in our families, businesses, or communities, we must take bold and purposeful action. Yes, it may involve some strategic cussing, throwing out the traditional norms, and cathartic screaming-even if behind closed doors. We will live, change, and make a difference fully when we are not worried about being “well-behaved”, liked, accepted, validated, or approved by others. It’s time to rise Queens, authentically and unapologetically.