10 Ways Girls Can Persevere Today

By Global Youth Correspondent Samantha, age 19, Nigeria

Hillary Clinton, the former Secretary of State of the United States once said: “Women are the largest untapped reservoir of talent in the world. It is past time for women to take their rightful place, side by side with men, in the rooms where the world is shaped.” This quote highlights the importance of including women in decision-making processes, both in the public and private spheres.

“Girls, listen: We can be whoever and whatever we aspire to be. Or better put, who we should be.”

For a long time girls and their voices have been suppressed. As a result, timidity and low self-esteem have kept young girls and women from believing in their full potential. It’s important to remember that girls can break free from the limitations they face and do great things. Yes, you can do great things!

Girls, listen: We can be whoever and whatever we aspire to be. Or better put, who we should be.  We can’t reach our full potential with crossed hands and legs, however. To achieve our goals, we must do something: We must rise. We must discover ourselves, build our character, nurture our potential, keep fighting in the face of adversity, value ourselves, respect others, and learn to be happy with who we are and what we’re capable of.

 Here are a few words of encouragement for my fellow girls around the world: 

1. Find Yourself

Discover yourself. Cultivate your self-awareness to identify your strengths and weaknesses. In that journey of self-discovery,  find your passions while avoiding unhealthy comparisons. Do not try to be a photocopy of anyone else.  You are unique!

2. Live a Purposeful Life 

We find true fulfillment when we begin to live in ways that impact others. Love others genuinely and create a positive change around you. If you live a purposeful life, you will keep on living even after your death.

3. Love Yourself

You are beautiful and deserving of love. If you learn to love yourself first, you’ll learn how to love others, too. Love the little things about yourself like your hair, your smile, and your laugh.

4. Be a Leader

A leader is someone who lives a life that is worthy of emulation. Leadership includes service to people and humanity. A leader is sacrificial. A leader is loving. A leader sets the pace, and a leader invests in other people.

“Everything you’re going through now is shaping you into the great woman you dream of becoming.”

5. Love Your Family

Make time for your family and have fun with them. Make memories with the ones you love. Family isn’t defined by blood, but by the love we hold for those closest to us.

6. Honor Others:

Human beings are the greatest resources on earth. Respect everyone and do not treat anyone less than yourself. Everyone is worthy of dignity. See people through the lens of love. Appreciate people and acknowledge those who matter in your life.

7. Enjoy the Process

I have learned to enjoy the process of growth and I urge every girl to enjoy their own journey. No matter what you’re going through in life, enjoy the process. Remember that silver goes through fire and intense heat to be refined. After the harsh refining process, it comes out pure and highly valuable. Everything you’re going through now is shaping you into the great woman you dream of becoming.

8. Commit to Your Goal

Whatever you want to do, whatever you dream of doing, whatever you aspire to do, start now. Do not let fear, anxiety, or the negative words of others deter you from your goal. Make daily conscious efforts to reach your goal. You do not have to rush, but make sure you never stop.

9. Enjoy Your Life

We have one life to live. Do the things you want to do, help that person you want to help, and achieve the dreams you set before you.

10. GIRL, GET UP!

It doesn’t matter what happened. Did you fail an exam? Did you lose something important? Were you rejected on an application? Did you lose a friend or a loved one? did someone insult you or make you believe that you are not capable enough? Life is hard, but you are strong.  Don’t allow other people’s opinions or hurdles in life to keep you down. It doesn’t matter if you fall seven times, you can stand again. So girl, get up! 

Never forget that you are more than who you think you are. You are unique and priceless! I love you, and I am rooting for you.

Global G.L.O.W. partners with community-based organizations in 30 countries to operate mentorship-driven programs for girls ages 10-18. Our SEL-based curriculum gives girls the tools to express themselves, advocate for their rights, and challenge the most critical barriers to achieving gender equality. Support our work at globalgirlsglow.org/donate.