Inner and outer strength is the ultimate goal, right? It’s not just about looking strong, it’s about being strong. Strong enough to own your truth and walk solidly in it, no matter what others say about you. Yet, strong enough to lift others up who may not be doing the same.
Because our society is so caught up in being “better than”, it’s easy to feel that as long as you’re doing well, nothing else matters. You’ve worked hard to build your confidence and let go of the weight of others’ opinions and biases against you. Is that enough?
The strongest people in the world aren’t those who win competitions. They are the ones who look around and ask: “how can I lift someone else?”
Take time to come out of your own head and see the people around you. If you see someone struggling, fearful and lacking confidence, share your strength with them by offering to be a friend.
In the gym, offer to spot the guy who looks nervous to squat at the rack. Even a simple compliment can go a long way toward helping empower other people to be the strongest version of themselves.
It’s true that you never know what others are going through. Still, we often get caught up in our own struggles, our own insecurities … to the point that they are all we see. You never know who is watching you, or who may look to you as an example of achievement.
Don’t get stuck on the idea that strength is about staying fierce in every situation. Being vulnerable at appropriate times is a powerful way to share your strength with others. Because the people around you can’t read your mind and don’t know your stories, sharing them can debunk myths of superiority or inferiority that they may have.
When someone opens up to you, sharing a piece of your story can help uplift them with strength. Ditch fear of judgment, failure, or loneliness by empowering others to be better—just by being your truest, most transparent self.