The Power of Sisterhood
Many women experience some type of trauma throughout their lives, but most of the people around us probably wouldn’t know that would they? Often as women, we think we have to “keep it together” so we don’t unravel in a society that places so many stresses and pressures on us.
We have been left to our own devices as we’re told we need to “be strong” and “think positively”. While these are incredible messages, it can be difficult to know how to achieve that mindset without some sort of guidance. Too many women today, “thinking positively” often translates into sweeping the difficult parts of life under a rug. We often experience guilt or shame if we don’t have it all together and wouldn’t even think of admitting that we actually need help.
After all, that’s a sign of weakness, isn’t it?
The problem with this mentality is that not only is it NOT sustainable, but it’s also simply not true. We have a full spectrum of emotions to navigate through on a daily basis, and that’s not even considering when we face challenges or obstacles.
Eventually, sweeping things under a rug no longer works when we realize that all we’ve done is create a giant mountain that’s too overwhelming to climb. And to think it could have been avoided by seeking help so we can heal from our traumas instead of hiding from them.
The idea of a community goes back to ancient settlements, yet we’ve lost touch with what it feels like to have a group of people with common goals, mindsets, and experiences supporting us. We have forgotten the magic that happens when we have sisters all around us that are ready to catch us when we fall, hug us in the moments we don’t think we can go any further, and rooting for us as we cross the finish line.
With strength in numbers, there’s absolutely nothing you can’t achieve. It’s just a matter of time.
Here are a few tips so you can benefit from finding your tribe:
Look for a community that aligns with your needs. There are endless groups one can join nowadays. Seek out people who will understand what you’re going through. This will make it easier for you to share your story and seek advice from those who have been there and know how to get through those difficult moments.
Make yourself accountable. It’s easy to let things slide when there’s no one checking in on your progress. Find ways to connect to like-minded people who will hold you accountable so that you can achieve your ultimate goal of healing and living the life you dream of.
Allow yourself to be vulnerable. Let go of the idea that you “have it all together” – that’s a myth and trust me, no one can honestly say that. Being vulnerable around people who care about you is so liberating. You’ll find yourself surrounded by waves of support and advice that can only come from those who have walked on a similar path as you.
There’s a power that arises from recognizing that you are not alone. The sheer idea that you will never truly unravel is life-changing as you duck and weave through days that feel impossible. I encourage you to find your tribe to remind you of just how powerful you are when you stand side by side with all of your sisters.