For about a week now I've been reflecting on the image I seem to have about being strong. Until I finally started asking around; what do you mean when you say I'm a strong woman! And I started getting interesting answers, but the one which impressed me was that people perceived me as a person that can't just sit still, a person who drives things. And that's true. Even in my most difficult moments I don't simply sit back & wait for the storm to pass. I do

embrace it & my "fixer" mind goes 200% on how to come out of it & what can I learn from

it.

Since I became a mother this drive became even stronger. Now it's not only about what I

learn from it, but also what can I pass on to my daughter from this experience. What do I teach her so she either doesn't get herself in similar situations or if she does at least for her to know how to cope with it? I've been lucky to have a mother who's been a role model for me. Even if I still disagree with some of her educational methods & beliefs I'm very thankful to her for the" solid ground" she has given me. I wouldn't be capable of "getting my head above water" if it wasn't for the strong basis I've been given.

I've been very critical of myself until recently. But after all the emotional support and recognition from my circle about my strengths, I've finally started tapping myself on the shoulder for even the little wins.

I've "won" myself a week of peace by putting boundaries and prioritizing myself. Also by communicating more clearly what I need and want. I've also won an "escape" possibility for me to calm down & get a different perspective of the situation. And I'm so proud of myself for it. It's the little wins that make a difference and we need to be proud of the baby steps toward a better self. And be constant, not slipping back into old habits.