Women face a unique paradox in the world today. On the one hand, we have more opportunities than ever before. We have an extraordinarily wide variety of options which can be both exciting and empowering.

On the other hand, this power to choose can also be terrifying. With so many different paths available in a quickly changing world, many women are left feeling overwhelmed.

Strengthening internal alignment is key to unlocking clarity and direction. When you know who you are and what you stand for, facing the challenges of life becomes easier. A strong sense of self is often created and developed—not just inherently given. Strengthening our internal alignments takes intention. Here are five steps to develop greater internal alignment.

1  Recognize you are struggling with uncertainty. The first step toward developing your internal alignment is recognizing that you are struggling. It may sound simple, but you cannot fix a problem you don’t acknowledge. Recognize your struggle, accept it for what it is, and commit to moving forward.

2 Practice self-compassion. Women are notoriously critical of ourselves—often using unkind words to describe the way we look, think, and feel. However, strong internal alignment cannot exist alongside such harshness. Begin to practice self-kindness. Find compassion for the person in the mirror. Acknowledge that you have always been doing your best.

3 Discover what matters most. This means connecting with our passions, purposes and our truth. Our culture may have certain expectations that pressure us to conform, but to have secure internal alignment, you must understand who you are, what you believe in, and what you are working toward.

4 Redefine self-identity. As women, many of us struggle to exist in our own stories. Perhaps we are largely seen as someone’s wife, mother, daughter, coworker, caretaker, or friend. To achieve greater internal alignment, contemplate a picture of who you are outside of the roles you occupy and how others see you.

5 Utilize outside support. Remember, many women are on the same path to achieve greater internal alignment. Utilize outside support by sharing insights and new truths with those who can appreciate and encourage your journey.

Contact Renee Ellis, MA LPC RMT of Live Your Knowing Counseling at 720-984-9575 or [email protected]