Strength is a funny thing…

Some days I am proud because I am a strong, independent woman who works hard and accomplishes amazing things. Some days I am depressed because I am a strong, independent woman who works too hard and refuses to ask for help.

Strength is a funny thing, isn’t it? The characteristics of being strong include power, courage and potency. Yet it’s the exact opposite we feel sometimes when we are considered to be a strong person. (It can’t just be me that feels that way, right?) Too often being strong simply means we hide our weaknesses and exist in solitude or fear.

We should remember strength comes in many forms and fashions, and can be tested daily (or more often). How we respond to challenges is a true reflection of our strength whether we realize it or not. Asking for help, starting over or even walking away from a situation may actually be a sign of strength, depending on the situation.

The true test of strength is how you respond. After all, you never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.

This week I asked for help. It wasn’t a sign of weakness, but an admission that I can’t do it all, and more importantly, I don’t have to. Don’t beat yourself up for asking for help. All around you are friends, family members, business associates, community leaders, non-profits and even complete strangers who are here to help. Be strong and ask!