How to Be Empowered

The concept of empowerment isn't easy to define partly because it means different things to different people. For minority groups, it might mean being proud of their identity. For women, it can also mean rejecting the submissive role. But empowerment is for everyone. It's about how you see yourself, what you do with your life and how you relate to other people.

Instructions

• 1

  Assess how you've lived your life in relation to your values. This is a painful process that you must get through if you want to feel empowered. Admit the dreams you haven't fulfilled and figure out what's stopping you.

• 2

  Feel the control you have over your decisions. Empowerment isn't about doing everything right. Create an environment where you can make your own decisions and grow from your mistakes.

• 3

  Write down goals based on what you've always wanted to achieve in your life. Concentrate on one goal at a time. Assess what information and skills you're missing.

• 4

  Learn to let go of mistakes. Accept that they're a gift because they show you when you're on the wrong path. Be brave enough to change course, even when you have to admit you're wrong.

• 5

  Take time every week to assess your progress. Note how much closer you're getting to achieving your dream. Hold back expectations and instead take joy in what you've accomplished.

• 6

  Keep a journal where you record your growth. Write about your values and evaluate how well you stuck to them each day. Instead of reprimanding yourself for falling short, come up with creative ways you could have done better for next time.

• 7

  Seek out others who'll support you. Turn to family members who've always been on your side. Look for support groups in your community. Tap into message boards and chat rooms online where people who've faced some of your challenges hang out.

• 8

  Give of yourself at least once a week. Empowerment is as much about sharing with others as it is about your self-esteem. Help a neighbor, donate to charity or volunteer. Be an inspiration to others around you.