*two hands shoot straight up like a 1st grader needing to use the loo*
Fem•i•nism (n.) – the idea that women are also human
It’s International Women’s Day, ladies! Which means two things:
- It’s time to celebrate women… like we do everyday here at [insert title here]! #trendsetting
- It’s a chance to feature a few badass, must-know humans (some I know, some I don’t) who constantly inspire me to live with purpose and to work towards something greater than myself.
[this post is happily linked with your curiosity in mind]
F E M I N I S T S (n.) – those brave enough to label themselves fighters for female equality
+ Malala Yousafzai is one of the greatest spirits on this earth. She’s shown that courage outplays evil and that love triumphs hatred. She’s inspired me to be a better woman and a better member of humanity – one who stands for equality and for justice. Who said role models have to be older than you? At 18, Malala has touched more people than I could only hope to inspire in a lifetime (or two). Her novel I Am Malala is a riveting must-read. For more on Malala, click H E R E.
+ Amy Dickinson is everything. She belongs in both this category and the next, as she’s a mother, writer, and fabulous feminist. She holds a definite, long-reigning spot on my list of top 5 of must-meets, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon (or ever). Can you say girl crush? She’s the author of The Mighty Queens of Freeville: A Mother, a Daughter, and the Town That Raised Them – a book that dissects the long line of single-women warriors in her family, and her journey of becoming her own. Not enough time for a novel? She also writes the Ask Amy column for the Chicago Tribune, which is also published in just about every major newspaper nationwide. Her advice is real and uprooting, but that’s what makes her work so unique and needed.
Fun fact: I emailed Amy once. She told me I have “pluck.” Best. Day. Ever.
+ Jennifer Lawrence. Because who doesn’t love J.Law? Or Katniss. Or not dieting. Need I continue?
W R I T E R S (n.) – those who inspire, choosing words as their weapons
+ Natalie writes Natalie Dressed and is the founder of Style+Spirit. She is a constant source of positivity through her content and on my Instagram feed. Her blending of spirituality and fashion is effortless, and she rocks what she’s got – regardless of what others might think. Need a pick me up? Check out her Instagram accounts H E R E and H E R E.
+ Real Talk with Lindsey is authored by a women I had the pleasure of knowing in high school. She’s as truly authentic spirit with a message that resonates: be real and be you. Her chic new brand Fearlessly Authentic Living embodies all that she stands for – and all that you should, too. Check out her Instagram H E R E.
Since I’m already plugging some serious lady bosses…
+ Sarah Pekkanen is one of my favorite authors. How she cranks out a new novel each year, I have no idea. From being a superhero mom to a genuine, kindhearted friend, this woman seriously has a secret to getting it all done. If you need a good read, grab any of her books and allow yourself to escape the (sometimes) all-too-realness of this world. Every once and a while, a moment to yourself is more than needed – it’s necessary. Snag one of many copies H E R E.
( P E R S O N A L ) H O N O R A B L E M E N T I O N S (n.) – people I admire (and love)
+ Mom – Thanks for showing me what it takes to be a woman warrior. You take each day by storm, and I am so damn proud to be your daughter. You rock, Chief.
+ Dad – I know it’s Women’s Day, but you’re the the biggest feminist I know. Thanks for roughing it up with me and teaching me to defy gender boundaries, everyday.
+ Lauren – From barbells to beauty queen, you defy every female stereotype that has ever existed. Thank you for kicking ass at life and for showing me that limits don’t exist. Ever. Even if you aren’t Cady Heron.
+ Sue – You’re the strongest, most inspiring woman I know. Never forget how loved you are and just how proud I am to call you family. You’ve changed us all, more than you know. P.S. I promise I’ll call more.
So, tell me ladies, whom do you look up to? Who inspires and motivates you to be better to yourself and to others? Drop me a comment below so we can all get inspired and celebrate these women – today and everyday!
Cheers to rockstar chicks.
-Megan
[insert title here] 
