Women are strong, intelligent and influential, capable of anything they put their minds to. Their ability to lead with intuition and make decisions based on their innate drive to nurture and develop success lends useful in their ability to influence fellow individuals.

Ever wondered what specific characteristics influential women have that makes people want to listen and heed their counsel? Below are 10 specific characteristics. Do they surprise you?

1. "No"

Influential women recognize saying "no" as a tool of prioritization, instead of a critique of their capabilities or character. Their ability to take constructive criticism and provide constructive criticism creates a dynamic flow of decision-making that improves their overall communicative success.

Apple CEO and famous entrepreneur Steve Jobs described the importance of negating when he said, " ... It's only by saying 'no' that you can concentrate on the things that are really important."

2. Presence

In a recent research study, psychologists have discovered body posture not only affects the way others perceive us, but the way we view ourselves as well.

Influential women carry themselves with a posture and confidence unmatched by any other. Their dynamic presence is hard to ignore and attracts people to listen.

3. Never give up

This may seem like the most obvious answer but it is one of the most telling characteristics of an influential woman. A woman who is not swayed by others' doubts, concerns and lack of faith in her is a strong woman. Defying odds and conquering doubts without a spotlight is influential.

4. Embrace the unknown

Influential women are able to embrace the unpredictable and make the curveballs work in her favor.

"Don't be intimidated by what you don't know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else," said Sara Blakely, the founder of the heaven-sent undergarment Spanx.

5. Calm amidst the chaos

Influential women continue on in the face of chaos with a calm and optimistic view of potential outcomes.

"Aerodynamically, the bumblebee shouldn't be able to fly, but the bumblebee doesn't know that so it goes on flying anyway," said Mary Kay Ash, the distinguished founder of Mary Kay Cosmetics.

6. Stand by their decisions

Influential women stand by their decisions and do not wallow in self-pity when conditions are less than optimal.

Famous realtor Barbara Cocoran described the difference between successful people and others by the time they spend feeling sorry for themselves.

7. Passionate

Influential women are passionate and hardworking. They are willing to work hard for what they want and put in the time and effort needed to succeed in life.

8. Healthy lifestyle

Krista Butler, a health and wellness coach, described the importance of eating well for women in the business sector to succeed. The food you choose to eat establishes the foundation of your health and overall appearance. Investing the time to eat real food will create real energy to get real work done.

9. Balance in all things

Influential women are able to unplug and disconnect every once in awhile. Taking a break from the constant commotion and focusing on their immediate surroundings allows them to refocus and recharge their minds for the work that is to come.

Exercising, reading a book, going for a walk or participating in early morning yoga ... whatever your getaway may be, taking the time to find a balance between being a human being and being a boss will allow you to be more influential in your work.

10. Rise by lifting others up as well

An old tale suggests a rising tide lifts all ships. An influential woman is able to generously give credit to others. Her tone of appreciation and acknowledgment not only boosts the esteem of those receiving accolades, but it benefits herself as well by proxy. When the people she is influencing feel secure and successful, she will feel that way in turn.