The new year is when many women resolve to make changes that will bring them closer to achieving their goals and realizing their dreams. But some women find it difficult to put their own needs first, and others feel weighed down by hardships. Author and human rights activist Jánelle Marina Méndez Viera encourages women not to let fear and self-doubt stop them.
“Maybe you’ve been told not to go for that risky job, or you’re afraid to relocate for your career because you’re a mom,” she says. “It’s OK to be scared while you’re trying to figure something out. We all have moments when we don’t feel safe and comfortable. Risk taking throws you out of your comfort zone. As long as you’re not in danger, that discomfort will be part of your growth.”
As a child and young adult, Méndez Viera endured sexual violence and modern slavery, some of which happened while she served in the military. Now an academic researcher, human rights activist, entrepreneur and public speaker, Méndez Viera has lobbied for, and achieved changes at nearly every level of government. This includes authoring the Restoration of Honor Act of 2019. “This journey has cultivated a resilience and determination within me that I hope to use to inspire others,” she says.
If you’re struggling, here’s how to keep moving forward
Méndez Viera suggests taking some of the same strategies she followed. They include:
1. Believe in your strengths. “Stay confident in your abilities and potential, despite any negative voices around or within you. When you feel doubtful, read stories of women who’ve come before you and overcame similar adversities.”
Méndez Viera’s role models include some who paved the way for her own technological and human rights achievements. “In the 1940s, Hedy Lamarr invented the precursor to Bluetooth. Eleanor Roosevelt was instrumental in founding the United Nations. And even though my own family was dysfunctional, I had friends who taught me how to have healthy relationships.”
2. Connect with others. “It can be tempting to isolate oneself in difficult times. Instead, reach out to support groups, psychologists and networks of individuals who have faced similar experiences. Resources like PTSD support groups, the Veterans Administration, counseling sessions, and various online platforms such as Veterans Crisis Line can be of immense help during troubled times.”
3. Practice self-care. “Healing emotionally and physically is integral to personal development. For me, this meant regular exercise, meditation, therapy and ensuring a healthy lifestyle. It’s especially important to practice self-care during those times when you want to give up.”
4. Drive change. “Activism provided me with a sense of purpose and passion. Use your experience to empower others with similar struggles so you help them to heal and make their journeys less painful.”
5. Keep learning. “Continual growth and education served as a beacon of light in my darkest times. As an author and inventor, I found solace, purpose, and game-changing dynamism in the pursuit of knowledge and innovation.”
She emphasizes, “Sometimes obstacles can be opportunities to learn more about yourself, and to create a better path for your life. You can learn to thrive even during hard times.”
To learn more about Méndez Viera, please visit www.JanelleMarinaMendez.com.