6 Empowering Life Rules to Make You Stronger

When I first started university and dreamed of becoming a journalist, I was an avid reader of Esquire’s Life Rules. Back then, they only published men’s principles, and I often felt disappointed that successful women didn’t share the key aspects of their lives. Gradually, I began to create my own rules and tried to follow them diligently. I found inspiration in my role models—women who had achieved success and overcome numerous challenges. Now, I’m ready to share that inspiration with you.

Speak Up for Those Who Can’t

At 18, I visited a local bar where I saw a sign that read, “Speak for those who can’t.” The idea that strong people should protect the weak has stayed with me for over five years. Since then, I’ve made it a rule to act when I can, bringing benefits to those around me who may not be as bold or daring.

Don’t be afraid to defend controversial opinions, advocate for common sense when others live in illusions, and protect the truth at all costs. These are the qualities of a strong woman. Speak up about what others silence and act where others don’t. This way, you’ll never be called weak.

Emmy Rossum, star of the TV series “Shameless,” set an ultimatum to the show’s creators in 2016. She didn’t find it fair that she was paid less than her male colleagues, even though her character had more screen time. This wasn’t just about money; it was a fight against workplace inequality. While other women accepted the injustice, Rossum spoke up.

You’ll likely find similar examples in your life, and now you know what to do.

Be Irreplaceable

Coco Chanel once said, “To be irreplaceable, one must always be different.” A woman who isn’t afraid to experiment with her appearance, lifestyle, and thoughts is a remarkable woman. Such women are always the center of attention in any company.

The ability to reinvent yourself is a great quality for a strong woman. The desire for change and the ability to implement it will help you stay in tune with the times and always surprise others. This rare art breaks silly stereotypes about individuality and frees you from stagnation. Mademoiselle Chanel herself is a testament to this, as she not only gave women the freedom to be themselves but also remains in vogue.

Strive for Self-Improvement

Relationships can end, marriages can fall apart, and friend circles can change, but if you focus on self-development, you’ll never depend on anyone. There are values much more important than a stable partner or domestic comfort—you yourself. After all, you have to live with yourself, so it’s yourself that you should constantly improve and change, without relying on someone else’s support.

Emma Watson, the highest-paid actress of the decade and a UN Goodwill Ambassador, earned enough from “Harry Potter” to live comfortably for the rest of her life. However, she didn’t leave school during the tough filming schedule and went on to attend Brown University. She had to take breaks and academic leaves to balance her studies and acting career, but she never gave up on her goals. Now, Emma actively develops educational programs in third-world countries.

Whenever I thought I didn’t have the strength to work and study simultaneously, I remembered her.

Explore the World Through Others’ Experiences

Simone de Beauvoir once said, “What hinders traveling is not lack of money, but lack of curiosity.” You don’t have to leave your homeland to be curious. What captivates us is not the scenery but the stories we hear or experience ourselves.

Be curious, communicate with people, and listen carefully. Let people with stories into your life and don’t be indifferent to what’s happening in the world. This way, you’ll gain emotions and learn more about life. Remember, a strong woman is distinguished by her experiences.

I have a favorite South Korean singer, Lee Hyori. The peak of her career was in the mid-2000s, and now she can afford a less hectic schedule. Interestingly, a few years ago, she married her loved one, even though contractual marriages are the norm among show business stars in Korea. Together with her husband, they built a mansion on a small island and recently decided to turn it into a guest house. The couple hosts people from all over the world, cooks, cleans, and spends a lot of time talking with their guests. In my opinion, this is a great way to gain new experiences.

Don’t Be Cynical

Lena Headey, star of “Game of Thrones,” once visited a refugee camp in Greece. The life there impressed her so much that she wrote a touching letter about her love for the people she met. Despite their sorrows, losses, and the death of loved ones, they found the strength to unite and support each other.

You don’t need much to give warmth to the world around you. Compassion doesn’t require large sums of money. Don’t hide from newspaper headlines or ignore the misfortunes around you.

I’ve always been impressed by the people working in the search team “Liza Alert.” On an entertainment portal, I never miss any of their stories about searches. This is entirely voluntary work that saves hundreds of lives. It’s shocking to realize how many people die in the forests near Moscow, literally a kilometer from their homes! It’s painful to think that these people could have been saved if there were just a couple more people in the team. I think that one day I can join this mission.

Write Your Own Script

Actress Svetlana Khodchenkova often admitted in interviews that her favorite role was Sasha from “A Brief Course in a Happy Life.” Her character is brave, sharp, and sometimes even unprincipled, taking everything she wants from life. She isn’t bothered by the standards imposed on women about how they should behave, raise children, or even wear a bra. According to the actress, everyone has their own path, their own unique and unrepeatable story.