What does "being strong" mean to you? When reading this question, I started to wonder, am I a strong woman? Reflecting on the "strong moments" in my life, I was surprised to realize there are so many. "Being strong" can mean being able to stay curious and try new things; having the determination to persevere and finish a task, as well as the courage to give up and move on; remaining positive and resilient during difficult times; having the courage to make a tough decision; being able to think beyond myself, to love, and to bring joy to others... Strength comes in many forms.
What keeps you strong in times of trial? This might sound a bit weird: when things get hard, I start to write jokes. I jot down the big things, small things, sweet things, and bitter things in my life, transforming them into funny stories. Then I share them with my friends as if I am a standup comedian. It makes me feel good when thinking about how thick my joke book will be after this trial. Another thing that keeps me strong is my friends. Being a super extrovert, talking things through with someone that I trust keeps me strong in difficult times.
How have your trials made you stronger? Every trial gives me a new book to write, plus my joke book! More specifically, trials push me out of my comfort zone, forcing me to think about new problems, reach for new contacts and opportunities, and gain new perspectives. New project ideas come up during trials. Trials also practice my tolerance of uncertainty and ability to navigate through different situations. Each trial not only tests my strength but also enriches my life in unexpected ways.
How do you encourage other women to be strong? I would usually have 1-on-1 bubble tea dates, listen to their stories, understand and empathize with what they are going through, and offer moral support/help wherever I can. I believe building friendships could be empowering and could help other women navigate through various difficult scenarios.
What’s one thing someone could do today to make them stronger? Weight lifting :] Haha, no, the serious answer, is to take a moment to reflect on what we appreciate and are grateful for in life. It’s so easy to focus on what we don’t have and become bitter, overlooking the beauty that surrounds us. Whether it’s the love of family and friends, the smile of a stranger, an unexpected encounter with a raccoon… Acknowledging the privileges and abundance we already have can help us maintain perspective and strength. This gratitude helps us to keep moving forward with a positive and resilient mindset.
Tukey’s Intentional Act of Kindness
How did you use the $100? I invited 5 international students from various countries on a bubble tea date and treated each of them to $20 bubble tea and/or dessert. I wish this could be the start of our friendship and they will feel more comfortable to hang out and ask for support if they need any.
As an international student, I am aware of how helpful it can be to have friends I can turn to in a new country. I have received help and support in various forms since I came here five years ago, and I wish to pass on the love to others!
What was the 'Intentional Act of Kindness' process like for you? I live in a communal house named "International Friendship House," and we host dinners for international students every Thursday. So I will chat and schedule a bubble tea date with one new international student once every two weeks, have bubble tea/dessert, and continue to build deeper friendships.