There have been a few women throughout history who have not only had the power to inspire those around them, but they also had the innate and natural ability to motivate and encourage people around the globe.
So, when we’re going through tough times ourselves—maybe we are facing a breakup or divorce, dealing with a work or career-related issue, struggling with the death of a loved one, or just trying to find our way through some other difficult situation that seems to take every ounce of strength we have—it can be extremely helpful to go back to the things these women have said, reminding us that we do have the power to make it through. That, if we look deep enough, we possess the strength to not only survive the situation, but to thrive in it.
If this is where you are today, if you are looking for those few words of encouragement, here are a few inspirational women quotes provided by other women who have found the strength and tenacity to push beyond the obstacles in their paths and make it to the other side. A place where you will soon be too.
I’m a woman. Phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, That’s me. ~ Maya Angelou
“I love this quote,” says Judith Samson, founder of Bra Bridge, a discreet bra clip that helps rectify some of the most common bra-related issues, some of which include side drift, sagging, and inadequate (and unflattering) support of the breasts.
Samson goes on to explain that this quote motivates her on a daily basis because, “As women, we have so many responsibilities: careers, business(es), children, a significant other, households, and the list goes on and on.” If you’re in the same boat, you already know that it’s easy for all of these to feel pretty overwhelming at times.
That said, even though Samson had responsibilities associated with being a wife, a mother of three boys, and a criminal and defense lawyer, she also had something deeper within her. It was her desire to “be able to walk into a room with confidence and grace, with my shoulders back and my breasts not bouncing around.” Thus, her new company was born.
If you’re facing a similar situation, one in which you feel pulled in a number of different directions at the same time, just remember that “we can do it all,” says Samson. “We are phenomenal!”
A woman with a voice is by definition a strong woman. But the search to find that voice can be remarkably difficult. ~ Melinda Gates
“This quote speaks to me because life can be full of difficult times, which we all know,” says Dr. Ashley Paré, dentist and owner of Shoreline Smiles. “However, it is in these very moments – those challenging moments that we’ll always reflect upon – that our character and legacy are formed.”
Paré is no stranger to pushing through challenging situations, strengthening her character (and her career) along the way. For instance, when she graduated 7 months earlier than expected with her degree from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, instead of sitting back and coasting, she used that time to obtain her hygiene license as well.
“I believe that these moments are the types of moments, we as people, need to not shy away from,” says Paré. “However, to add to that, we as women need to find our confidence in our voice and let it be heard more regularly.”
In other words, don’t be afraid to express your thoughts, ideas, and opinions. Better yet, work at becoming comfortable with sharing all of these more frequently. You have a voice for a reason. Don’t be afraid to use it.
I was taught that the way of progress was neither swift nor easy. ~ Marie Curie
“Marie Curie was such an inspirational woman and scientist to me,” says Cara Simpson, co-founder of City Strings & Piano, a company that provides high-quality, in-home music lessons to individuals across the country. But what is it about this particular quote that helps keep Simpson going?
“This quote reminds me that, with any challenges I face, anything is possible with dedication and tenacity,” she says. This means digging in deep and using your inner strength to keep going. It involves keeping a firm hold on your dreams and not stopping until you achieve them.
“I feel that embarking on a life in entrepreneurship is so rewarding,” says Simpson, “but it’s not easy nor swift to achieve. That said, I wouldn’t change it for the world. I’d simply suggest that other women keep in mind that it’s a marathon and not a sprint.”
So, lace up your shoes, girl, and take it one step at a time. As long as you stay the course, you’ll hit the finish line.
