10 things, 9 tips, 8 ways, 7 signs...

How many of you read those lists in magazines that tell you "great" ways on 'how to lose weight', or 'is she really your best friend?', how about 'you're boyfriend is cheating when...?'. These "helpful tips" reach into our emotions and our psyche and play out what is currently in our life or what we hope to obtain. I have never been a fan of these lists even when I was a teen. I never believed that the human race could be so generalized.

Lately I am starting to realize maybe we are? How can we be individually unique but also be a general population? What works for one may not for another.

Recently one of my very good friends said to me, "You sound like every other woman!". Boy did that hit me hard! There is nothing I dislike more than being  compared to others. I take pride in my uniqueness and all that it consists of. I couldn't help but think, "Is she right?". Having a small group of close girlfriends they are each different in their own way. Yes there are common interests but for the most part they each have their own style, their own opinion, their own perspective on life. I don't believe I have ever utilized my friendships the way I have done this year. I rarely ever used my friends or family as an outlet for venting. I've learned it is okay to feel and to vent the stress and anxiety that I carry. In speaking to the beautiful and strong woman around me I realized their words of wisdom have been EXACTLY what I have needed to hear! 

Today I came across a bunch of these lists and I read them! Surprisingly, I related to some of the advice given and as I expected, other things could not have been further from the truth. It's validating when a friend or someone we know can understand how we feel and where we are coming from. Even more so when there are other people out there experiencing the same thing as you! (If not something similar.) 

It's nice to know I am not alone. And neither are you!