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Demystifying Misconceptions: Embracing Strength and Resilience

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A woman in a white blazer and black top

Today, let's delve into a topic that's often misunderstood: the concept of being strong. As we navigate these misconceptions and pushback, let's bear in mind that strength is a multifaceted and deeply personal journey. It's about embracing vulnerabilities, celebrating resilience, and showing the compassion and kindness we all deserve. 

In a world where strength is often misunderstood and frequently equated with manliness, it's important to remember that being strong isn't about masking our emotions or pretending that everything is chipper. Rather, being strong is about facing life's challenges with courage, conviction, soundness of mind, and an unwavering determination that you will get through them.

Can you recall a time in your life when you experienced difficulties and emerged stronger in the end? Those moments of struggle weren't easy, but they taught you some valuable lessons about your own resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges and thrive. They revealed just how strong you truly are.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said: 
A woman is like a tea bag – you can't tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.
A woman in a white blazer and black top

Being strong means having the courage to withstand adversity, to persevere through hardship, to pursue dreams, and to overcome obstacles with resilience. It's about trusting in your inner wherewithal knowing that you have the power within to overcome whatever life throws your way.

Still, it's important to address some common misconceptions and pushback that may blindside us:

Patriarchal Connotations: 


Some may argue that the notion of being strong is rooted in patriarchal power and emotional suppression. While it's true that traditional notions of strength have often been associated with manliness, power and dominance, it's life-giving to reclaim and redefine strength in a way that is inclusive and empowering for all genders. Strength is about refraining from oppressive expectations or living passively, and embracing our humanity as we navigate life's challenges with resilience and authenticity.

Deserving of Love and Tenderness: 


There's a grave misconception that being strong means foregoing vulnerability, tenderness, and the need for support and affection. The truth is, being strong does not negate our need and expectation for love and tenderness. Instead, it is about having the audacity to show up authentically and ask for support when the need arises. It is a shame that oftentimes the ones who claim to love us are the ones that take us the most for granted. Being strong is recognizing your own worthiness of love and affection. It is about extending the same compassion to others that we desire for ourselves while rejecting anything that does not support that. It's about creating spaces where vulnerability is honoured with warmth and approval, not shunned.

Overcoming the Superhero Myth: 


Another common misconception is the idea that being strong means having a superhero complex—always in control, never faltering, and capable of handling everything on our own. This myth sets unrealistic standards and leads to isolation and burnout: an inability to deal with life's problems adequately. No one is capable of never faltering or always being in control. Such a notion is laughable. The bottom line is, people need people. In reality, strength is found in our willingness to seek help, to lean on our support systems, and to embrace imperfections. It's about recognizing that vulnerability is not a weakness, but a source of courage and strength. 

A woman in a white blazer and black top

Let's flip the script and embrace a more holistic approach to strength and personal power. One that celebrates vulnerability, authenticity, and compassion. Here's why it is time to rethink contemporary wisdom: it is grounded in misconceptions about what being strong really means, deemphasizing inclusivity, authenticity, and the importance of vulnerability.

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Location: Toronto, ON, Canada

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