The poem, Phenomenal Woman, was written by Maya Angelou in 1978, during a time when women were starting to break free and embrace their unique selves. That was 45 years ago, so it’s possible you were too young to appreciate its significance. Like most things in life, this poem came back into my life at the right time when I most needed it.
As I get older, I’m starting to appreciate my body and all that it does for me. I’m starting to realize that what I put into and onto my body affects how it responds. You might be thinking, “Well, duh, Laurie,” but how often do we take what our body does for us for granted? And then we criticize it when it is not “perfect.”
This poem is about a woman’s confidence, self-acceptance, and embracing her uniqueness. If you haven’t read it in a while, do it now!
The Power of Words
Words have the power to inspire, motivate, and even change our lives, especially when someone can put together a string of words that really touch our souls. Words that bring to life the thoughts we are having in our heads.
The definition of phenomenal is very remarkable, extraordinary, or even marvelous. Have you ever thought of yourself as a phenomenal woman? Does it change how you see yourself now that you know you are? Will you carry yourself just a little differently?
Affirmations are a great way to boost your self-esteem and confidence. Try writing down “I am phenomenal” every morning before you start your day. Put a sticky on your bathroom mirror as a reminder. Re-read the poem and feel yourself embodying the words. The words will start to change the neuropathways in your mind, and you will believe them! That’s powerful.
Embracing Your Uniqueness
Another meaning of phenomenal is being unusual in a way that is very impressive. And when I use the word unusual, I mean unique. Not an outcast or strange (unless that is who you want to be:)
What “usual” is is made up. How can there be a “usual” when every one of the seven billion people on the planet is unique? Too many of us are chasing “usual” or the definition of beauty in the media. What would happen if we all just embraced our uniqueness? For one, the personal growth and beauty industries would lose a lot of money. I am guilty of buying or trying all of the latest fads to shed a few pounds, but there is a difference between doing it for your health and doing it to fit into someone else’s idea of perfect.
In the poem, some of the phenomenal parts of the author are “the fire in my eyes,” “the sun of my smile,” “my inner mystery,” and “the bend of my hair.” Are there parts of you that you criticize but could also be what makes you special? How can you change your perspective and learn to love all of the parts of you?
Confidence and Presence
The woman in the Phenomenal Woman poem exudes confidence. Here are a few reasons why that is important for you:
- Positive Self-Image – When you believe in yourself and your abilities, you’re more likely to view yourself in a favorable light.
- Resilience – When you have faith in your abilities, you’re better equipped to bounce back from challenges.
- Effective Communication – When you’re self-assured, you are more likely to express your thoughts and ideas clearly and assertively.
- Goal Achievement – Self-confidence provides the motivation and determination needed to set and pursue ambitious objectives.
- Positive Influence – Confident individuals can inspire and motivate others.
- Happiness and Fulfillment – When you believe in yourself and your ability to navigate life’s challenges, you’re more likely to lead a satisfying and purposeful life.
The key to confidence is just to be you. Know that you were born with your own unique abilities. Those abilities are yours and yours alone. Only you can be an expert in your life. It cannot be compared or judged against anyone else’s life because they do not have the same ability!
You are a unique person; no other human has your ability. Each person’s abilities are needed and necessary for our world to thrive. So, why would you lack confidence in something only you can do?
The Phenomenal Woman Within
How are you a phenomenal woman? Read through the following five prompts and exercises to see which one will help you identify and celebrate your uniqueness.
Life Timeline: Create a timeline of your life, highlighting significant milestones, achievements, and challenges. Reflect on how each of those experiences has shaped who you are today. What unique strengths and qualities have emerged from your journey? Download the Marvelous Milestones eBook to help with this exercise.
Strengths and Values Assessment: So many tests and assessments are available for you to take and discover your unique strengths. CliftonStrengths or High5 are free assessments. I would love to help you discover your Dharma Archetype or Human Design. Or, you can do some personal reflection to discover your core values. Sometimes, it takes someone else to see our strengths and values.
Personal Passions Collage: Create a vision board that represents your passions, interests, and dreams. This can be a great visual reminder of what makes you unique.
Letter From a Friend: What do your friends say about you? Write a letter to yourself from your friends’ perspective, highlighting all of the wonderful qualities you have and the impact you make on them.
Bucket List of Uniqueness: Jot down all of the things you’ve always wanted to do or try that reflect your individuality. It could be anything from learning a new skill to traveling to a unique destination. Take concrete steps to make those things happen and celebrate each accomplishment along the way.
As we end this journey into the heart of uniqueness and self-assuredness, I hope you’ve found inspiration and motivation to rediscover and celebrate your inner phenomenal woman, no matter where you are in your life adventure.
Let’s continue to support and inspire each other as we navigate the marvelous journey of midlife. Remember, you are, indeed, a phenomenal woman, and your uniqueness is your superpower. Embrace it, celebrate it, and live it!