from the publisher
Ladies, let’s get one thing straight: We are a force to be reckoned with. We juggle careers, families, friendships, dreams and approximately 47 things on our to-do lists, all before lunch. We show up, figure it out and keep moving forward, even when life throws us a curveball. And somehow, we still find time to send a text that starts with “How can I help?”
But here’s the thing about strong women: Sometimes we forget just how strong we are.
We live in a world that has plenty of opinions about who women should be, how we should look and what we should accomplish. Be ambitious, but not intimidating. Be confident, but not conceited. Speak your mind, but make sure everyone is comfortable while you do it. Sound familiar? (Yes, I’m kind of channeling America Ferrera’s kickass Barbie monologue.) It’s exhausting.
Well, consider this your official permission slip to stop playing by those rules.
Confidence isn’t about being the loudest woman in the room or having every answer. It’s about knowing your worth, trusting your instincts and being brave enough to take up space. It’s raising your hand when you have an idea, saying no without writing a five-paragraph explanation and walking into a room believing you belong there — because you do.
And strength? It doesn’t always look like a woman conquering the world in a power suit. Sometimes it looks like starting over. Asking for help. Setting boundaries. Leaving a situation that no longer serves you. Or getting out of bed on a day when life feels heavier than usual and deciding to try again.
The most powerful thing women can do is support one another. There is room for all of us to shine. Another woman’s success does not dim your light and her confidence is not a threat to yours. Celebrate her promotion. Compliment her courage. Be the friend who reminds her of her magic when she temporarily forgets it. Women lifting women? Now that is a movement worth making room for. I’ve always said: When women come together, amazing things happen.
As you turn the pages of this issue, I hope you see more than beautiful faces, inspiring stories and fabulous finds. I hope you see reflections of your own strength and reminders of what is possible when you believe in yourself.
So stand a little taller. Laugh a little louder. Chase the big dream. Wear the bold lipstick. Book the trip. Take the chance.
And whatever you do, never shrink yourself to make someone else comfortable.
You are strong. You are capable. You are enough. And confidence looks absolutely fabulous on you.
— Kelly MacLeod
