Everyone loves to be thought of as a wonderful person. We all have our own thoughts on what we consider the greatest description of ourselves, but these seven qualities are universal in helping women feel their best. As you read each word, think about how it makes you feel, or how you can incorporate these ideals into your own life:
1. Influential
As mothers we influence our children to be their best. As women we can influence others for good in neighborhoods or work. She can set a good example to those around her. It is amazing when this influence is felt and comes back around to shine.
For example, I love the story of Helen Keller. She had many trials to overcome but she did it and had much influence through her writings, lectures and activism for the underprivileged.
Described as influential is a marvelous ideal, and I would love that word beside my name.
2. Faithful
One who is faithful can be your friend for a lifetime. There is integrity and a certain amount of trustworthiness to be considered faithful. Those who are faithful don't give up through thick and thin and stand by those they love.
We all know the story of Ruth from the Old Testament and how faithful Ruth was to her mother-in-law Naomi after their husbands passed away. Who doesn't love a faithful friend and family member? Being faithful is a great quality to have.
3. Humorous
We all love laughter and being entertained. Including the characteristic of humor in our personality is something we all want to be considered. Someone who loves to be humorous whether in slap stick, telling jokes or funny comments throughout the day, is a person who is well loved by everyone.
Think of the blessings of Lucille Ball, Carol Burnett or even Anna Farris. Life is much more enjoyable with someone who has a good sense of humor.
4. Virtuous
To be virtuous is to be righteous and pure. Here, we are referring to virtuous as upstanding, moral and ethical, which is a positive characteristic in a disintegrating society. The beauty of your spirit and thought lies within and a great byproduct is self-respect.
From the story of Jane Eyre, Jane remains virtuous through all the trials she has faced from her job as a governess to keeping herself pure from Edward Rochester. With the tag of virtuous, we keep our self-worth intact over a lifetime.
5. Kind
It's better to be kind than to be smart. This is something I have taught my children as they have matured to adulthood. We all know someone who is kind in our own circle of friends and this characteristic is very significant.
I have a friend who claims to have absolutely no talent whatsoever but she is the kindest person I have ever met. Kindness is important and can make an impression never to be forgotten. Remembering to be kind does more in relationships than any other ideal.
6. Fearless
In our own human nature, women can have many fears through life experiences but if we can overcome those fears and be fearless, this attribute can be a blessing to us in helping others and in our own self-worth. There are many fearless women who aren't afraid to follow their dreams or try something new.
I love the story of Mary Fielding Smith who after the murder of her husband Hyrum, became one of the early pioneer women to cross the plains to Salt Lake City against all odds. She was fearless and took her children, step-children and a few other dependents with her across the country without much help from other adults. Fearless is one word that I want included in my description after I leave this earth.
7. Clever
Finding the definition of clever gave more understanding to this word than what I originally thought: "Quick to understand, learn and devise ideas; intelligent." This also includes "being skilled at doing or achieving something."
Mayim Bialik is a great example of cleverness. By profession and college degree, she is a neuroscientist but has chosen to take part in the successful TV show "The Big Bang Theory" as the character Dr. Amy Farrah Fowler, who is also a scientist in the show. What a combination: smart and funny.
When we are clever, besides being academic, we can also think quickly on our feet; a characteristic I would love to be known as.
Don't beat yourself up if you don't have any of these qualities. Just focus on the development of one of these descriptive words, which can help improve your life and the life of others whom you know. These ideals are the best of what we would spend a lifetime achieving. Don't you agree?
