What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger

Even if you’re not a fan, it’s true that Kelly Clarkson sends a powerful message with her song, Stronger.

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn’t mean I’m lonely when I’m alone
What doesn’t kill you makes a fire
Put that thing on lighter
What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger
Just me, myself and I

Strength is an interesting concept. I think there’s a myth that being strong means something went wrong or that something bad occurred, which in turn equates a negative association with this idea of strength. While this may be true, strength is also a gift and it’s okay when you have to use this gift. Being strong in the face of adversity is something to celebrate.

I love those who can smile in trouble, who can gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection.
-Leonardo da Vinci

Our faith is tested in the face of adversity. It’s not about burying our feelings or ignoring tough situations; it’s about learning to dance in the rain. Being a fighter, having scars, trials and tribulations is a part of life. Mindfulness helps us acknowledge these moments for what they are, and strength is what helps us get through them.

You never know how strong you are, until being strong is your only choice.
-Bob Marley

Think about a time when you had to be stronger than you ever thought was possible, or maybe this is something you’re going through right now. Whatever it is, remember that you have inner strength available to you, you just have to clear your mind and allow yourself to tap into it. Bad things happen, but life goes on. You deserve to live life to its’ fullest, regardless of what has happened or not happened in your past. Strength builds character. Stay high on awesomeness so reality cannot destroy you.

I think scars are like battle wounds – beautiful, in a way. They show what you’ve been through and how strong you are for coming out of it.
-Demi Lovato

Take a listen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xn676-fLq7I (Kelly Clarkson, Stronger)

Source: Brainy Quote, MetroLyrics

Dance Like Everybody is Watching

We all know the saying, dance like nobody is watching, but I’d like to challenge that thought with the idea that we should dance like EVERYBODY is watching. Living out loud and being you, even when you make a mistake or feel silly or embarrassed, is how we learn and grow. Do we really care what other people think? I believe that as we age and gain experience we realize, no, I don’t really care what other people think. I’m not saying to be disrespectful or think you’re better than everyone else, you’re just loving yourself and putting yourself first, and that’s okay.

Dancing is a form of expression and I think we should let loose more often. Dancing at a wedding is fun, why not at the grocery store, the gym, or walking to work. Who cares? If you’re feeling the music and the moves are flowing, go for it. It’s like we’re afraid to smile and have fun, planning out every step we take and worrying too much about what’s going on around us, instead of really living in the moment and just being happy.

I challenge you to dance like everybody is watching. It’s actually super fun. 🙂