Battle of the Sexes: Part 4 - There is No Title to Encompass a Woman

Being a woman is a beautiful thing. Let that word sink in - woman. The word holds a significant amount of weight. They were made with the ability to do the impossible. They are a beauty to behold. They are a treasure that people will cherish forever. They face challenges on a daily basis - and on a monthly basis - that seem unbearable to most. But somehow, they find a way to overcome them. Overall, being a woman is an honor and a gift that should be embraced. But what exactly is the makeup of this divine creature? What qualities must one possess to be a woman? Just as I explained the complexity of a woman and what she does, it is understandable that there may be confusion and misconceptions about what it means to be one. Not everyone can be called a woman. It’s not a title one receives because of age or by inheritance. It’s not a word one can throw around when they think they’re grown. It is an accolade that is earned.

There are certain qualities and characteristics one must have to be a woman. That is what makes women distinct and special. It means more than simply growing to the right age. Rather, it is going through and overcoming life’s challenges, learning who you are as a person, embracing the knowledge gained along the way, and utilizing it to solidify the image of a woman. The one person that always comes to mind when I think of what it means to be a woman is my mother. I feel she is the embodiment of the word, and much more. However, every woman is different. Not every woman shares the same qualities and that is okay, because they show their womanly characteristics in other ways.

Listed below are some of the major characteristics one needs to hold the title. This comes from a variety of women who all seemed to share similar thoughts on the matter. One thing I want to reiterate is that every woman is different. That means there will be some traits that some don’t possess. I don’t want that to be interpreted as those individuals not being women. However, there are certain traits all women should have and they will be made known.

Strong, but not brolic. Independent, but not alone. “I-N-D-E-P-E-N-D-E-N-T, do you know what means?” A woman is the definition of what it means to be strong and independent. The constant struggle she endures from the society she was born in, as well as the stereotypes placed upon her to limit her success are all sources of her strength. She does not always depend on others to get what she needs. She’s Miss Independent (Ne-Yo voice). And when I say she is independent, I don’t mean she is bitter and lonely. Rather, she is content with what she has and who she is, and does not need someone else to complete her. Now, there is nothing wrong with a woman who depends on someone like her man. That doesn’t make her less of a woman. However, a woman must be strong in order for her to overcome the challenges that lay before her. She knows what she deserves and won’t settle for less. These traits usually translate into a high self-esteem and strong sense of self. She knows what she wants to make her happy and will pursue those things with good intent. A strong and independent woman has a solid ground she stands on, and cannot be shaken.

A heart of gold. This is definitely a trait all women should possess. One of the most admirable and appreciated characteristics a woman has is her big heart. Women are the most loving, caring, and nurturing people you’ll ever meet. Their kindness and compassion is what the world needs to maintain balance. She cares for those in her life, almost to a fault, and one of her top priorities and desires is to help those around her. If she has a man or special someone in her life, she will stand by him no matter what. Her big heart brings out the best in those around her. But be wary. Just as a woman can love those who deserve her love, she can do the opposite to those who mistreat it. So, I highly suggest you treat her with respect and be appreciative of her unyielding love.

This woman’s word. This is another important trait a woman must have. A woman stands by her word and is unbothered by the input of others. When she says something, she means it. So pay close attention when she speaks. Her word is what she lives by, and whether it’s her morals, standards, or beliefs, it is what she abides by throughout her life. Though others may disagree with her opinions, she stands firm by them no matter what. And to the guys, if you are trying to argue with her on this, it is a fight you will not win. You will lose the battle … and the war (trust me).

Don’t get lost in the dust she leaves behind. The drive of a woman is almost scary sometimes. It is through her resilience against her opposers and barriers, and strong mindset, that she is able to go above and beyond normal standards. And that’s because to her, it’s mandatory. In a world where women have every challenge and crutch imaginable placed upon them, making them less comparable to their male counterparts, she is forced to do the impossible - and she has the power to do it. Once she puts her mind to something, there is no stopping her. That drive is what has allowed women to progress and evolve throughout history, and is what will continue to push them toward their goals. Every woman may not have the same drive, or be as strong-willed in it. That is perfectly fine. She may not necessarily be a go-getter, but she will achieve her goals in some way.

Confidence speaks volumes. The confidence with which women embody in their lives is a big reason why they are so unique. Mind you, I’m talking about confidence, which is very different from pride and arrogance. A woman who walks with confidence is a force to be reckoned with. A woman’s confidence shows her love for herself and who she is as a person. She doesn’t waste her time worrying about the opinions people have of her because embraces herself and all that makes her a woman. In my opinion, confidence is one of the most attractive traits a woman can have. A woman’s confidence makes her more desirable because she’s genuine and has the ambition to make her dreams a reality. Even though this may not be a trait all women possess for different reasons, it is definitely a trait that makes her stand out and that much more attractive to others. It’s something I know men appreciate and gravitate towards, because her confidence equates to her happiness and content.

“Respect yourself.” I would say this is one of the major attributes of a woman, and something that doesn’t need much explaining. A woman respects herself and her temple. She isn’t playing “hard to get” or “playing games” - she is showing she holds herself to a higher standard. She knows right from wrong, and knows how to uphold herself and her image. That is why she stands out and evokes such a positive vibe.

I feel these qualities for the most part encompass what it means to be a woman. Now, that doesn’t mean this is the entire list or guidebook of what it means to be a woman. Of course, as I mentioned earlier, there are other aspects that make a woman who she is, but the consensus was that these stand out above rest. If you already exhibit these in your personality and have made it a part of your lifestyle, then you have already earned the title of a woman. Embrace it, and continue to exemplify it to those around you. However, if you see there are some traits you may not possess, don’t take it as you being any less of a woman. You are a necessity in this world, and it is because of how you uphold yourself that makes people cherish and appreciate all that you do. Never let anyone take that title away from you. Never let anyone dictate what you can or cannot do, because you have the power to do great things.

You have the power to shake the world.