Phenomenal Women: Celebrating the Power Within Every Woman

Celebrating all women this Mother's Day ...

When we think of a "phenomenal woman", many of us may instantly picture trailblazers, world leaders, or iconic figures who have made an undeniable impact on the world. But what if the true essence of being phenomenal isn't defined by fame, status, or position? What if being phenomenal is something every woman can embody, regardless of where she comes from or where she's headed?

I was recently inspired to reach out to my community of phenomenal women and ask them, "Who in their life has been a phenomenal woman? and what does being phenomenal mean to them?" Below is what I learned.

The truth is, every woman, in her own way, is phenomenal. Her worth isn't measured by society's standards of success, beauty, or power, but by the LOVE, resilience, compassion, and strength she brings to the world around her. It's the small moments of courage, grace, and authenticity that make a woman phenomenal to those who see her and to herself.

Being phenomenal isn't about perfection or being at the top of the hierarchy. It's about the quiet strength in a woman's heart, the unwavering determination in her spirit, and the ability to rise above the struggles that life may throw her way. It's the mother who works tirelessly to care for her children, the friend who always shows up when needed, the colleague who leads with kindness, and the sister who listens with empathy. She is in all walks of life, doing all things with authenticity and love. These women may rarely make headlines - if at all, but they make an impact.

Maya Angelou, in her poem, Phenomenal Woman, speaks to this very essence. She celebrates the unshakeable confidence, power, and presence women possess - not because they conform to any societal standard, but because they own their worth and their unique power with quiet confidence. Angelou wrote:

"I am woman

Phenomenally.

Phenomenal Woman,

That's me."

Angelou reminds us that being phenomenal isn't about external validation. It's about embracing who we are, flaws and all, and understanding that our presence, our actions, and our spirit make a difference. Every woman, no matter her circumstances or status, carries a unique kind of power - one that impacts the people around her in ways she may never fully understand.

One of the beautiful things about being a phenomenal woman is that her influence often extends beyond what she can see. A woman's kindness, her words of encouragement, or quiet strength can change someone's day - or even their life, and offer a sense of hope, or provide peace.

What's more powerful than the knowledge that your impact doesn't need to be big or flashy to be meaningful? Sometimes, the greatest legacies come from the people we encounter every day who leave a lasting impression on our hearts, not with grandeur, but with genuine care and compassion.

With all of this, it is important to remember that being phenomenal is contagious. When one woman recognizes her own worth and acts from a place of confidence and integrity, it has a ripple effect. She inspires other women around her to do the same. Whether it's a mother teaching her daughter to value herself, a mentor guiding another woman, or a friend uplifting another - phenomenal women create spaces for others to thrive.

Even the smallest gestures can spark change. A smile in a moment of sadness, an encouraging word in a time of doubt, or simply being present when someone needs support - all of these actions can be the turning point in someone's life. It's this ability to make a difference in the lives of others that truly defines a phenomenal woman.

So, what makes a phenomenal woman? It's her ability to embrace her imperfections, and still shine with strength, grace, and authenticity. It's her ability to lift others, whether through a kind word, a helping hand, or simply by being herself. Every woman, regardless of her status, position, or circumstance, holds within her the potential to be phenomenal - to someone, somewhere.

Being phenomenal comes from within. The way you carry yourself, the way you support others, and the way you show up in the world - all of these elements shape your own unique brand of greatness.

So, in recognition of this Mother's Day - no matter whether you are a mother or not, this day deserves recognition of all women. And so, wherever you are, whatever you do - know this - You are a phenomenal woman. Your strength, your love, and your presence make a difference to someone, and that is what makes you phenomenal.

Music for Phenomenal Women

Many months ago Robin Rushton shared Ruthie Foster's amazing song, Phenomenal Woman. From this song, I wanted to create a playlist, so I reached out to many phenomenal women in my life and asked them to share a song they felt was great for phenomenal women - one they highly resonated with. Of course, each of these songs resonates in a personal way with the woman who sent it to me, and is a reflection of wherever they are, or may have been on their own life journey.

Some songs were chosen by many, others were songs I had never heard before. In the end, I created a playlist of over 70 songs for Phenomenal Women. It's clear that music is deeply personal, yet every one of these songs is about resilience, strength, confidence, and inspiration for all of us to be Phenomenal Women. I encourage you to listen to the entire playlist, really listen. I'd love to hear what you think about them.

Thank you

Thank you to all of those who shared their stories, their phenomenal women, and their songs. In some small way, I hope this honours all that is phenomenal about all of you.

I'd love to have you leave a comment with the first name of any phenomenal women in your life. Let's honour them all - together!

Here are just a few of mine: Betty, Aunty Pat, Nicola, Jo-Anne, Judy, Jackie, Kaela, Lauren, Robin, Leslie, Elan, Bev, Vanessa, Angie, Madrone, Cheryl, Moni, Beth, Shannon, Pam, Chelsea, Shirley, Helen, Lisa, Lori, Cathy, Anita, Emily ... and the list goes on ... and on.

Happy Mother's Day to all the Phenomenal Women, the mothers, wanna be mothers, sisters, partners, lovers, wives, mentors, caregivers, friends, self-advocates, role models, and ripple makers.

And leave a name ... honour her here in the comments!

If you are interested in becoming part of a women's circle set with the intention of community, growth, expansion, and elevation for yourself, drop a note to karenttjourney@gmail.com and include "let's circle" in the subject.

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About :

Karen Hendrickson is an Elevation Coach, focused on helping others to rewrite their life story, befriend their mortality, and find the richness and magic that lives at the intersection of our lives where life and death meet. When we allow our authentic self permission to shine our life becomes full of MAGIC and GREATNESS.  Contact karenttjourney@gmail.com and start working with her today!