As women thriving and surviving in a misogynistic world, we need to stick together, build each other up, and protect each other. The following are the most important things I’ve learned while becoming a woman.

Try to keep your mind and heart open. Don’t let anyone stand in your way.

Have your own life and experiences. Even if no one else wants to do the things you love. Do them by yourself. Spend that time loving yourself.

Let others feel your confidence radiate from you. Don’t hold back one bit of that sunshine.

Be kind. Don’t say mean words. Don’t say things you don’t mean. Especially not to yourself.

Don’t label yourself or others. And remember that the ways other people label you don’t matter. It is how you react that matters. It is what you believe that matters.

Don’t purposefully hurt yourself or anyone else.

Remember that you are enough. You are smart. You are strong. You are beautiful. You are important. You are equal.

If you fall, get back up. Stand proud. Never stop trying. You can and will achieve everything you set your heart and mind to.

Continue to grow and thrive in the ways that nourish you.

Trust your instinct.

Be safe.

Find something to smile about every day.

Don’t be afraid to speak up. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.

Learn about consent. Don’t be afraid to say no.

Remember that your life, your body, and your mind are yours. Don’t let anyone take them from you.

When you look in the mirror, smile and be proud. See the things that make you unique. Connect with your beauty there.

The most important thing about being a woman is not the way we look. It’s not the way we behave in public. It’s not the way other people perceive us. The most important things about being a woman are about believing ourselves. About embracing our own inherent power. About manifesting our dreams into reality. About standing strong in the most terrifying moments. About understanding that the power inside of us is the strongest power on earth. And when we choose to raise our sisters up, this power becomes so strong it won’t break. It won’t be bullied. It won’t be assaulted. It won’t make less money. it won’t be body-shamed or slut-shamed. It will just be. A strong, glowing, beautiful force.

Starting with you, we will take over the world.