Are they my poor? I tell thee, thou foolish philanthropist, that I grudge the dollar, the dime, the cent, I give to such men as do not belong to me and to whom I do not belong.

Emersonian (comparative more Emersonian, superlative most Emersonian) of or pertaining to Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803 -1882), American essayist, philosopher, and poet, or his writings, work or style quotations ▼

In his essay, “Self Reliance,” Emerson’s sole purpose is the want for people to avoid conformity. Emerson believed that in order for a man to truly be a man, he was to follow his own conscience and “do his own thing.” Essentially, do what you believe is right instead of blindly following society.

Here are 10 ways to discovering your strong independent self and help in building your character:

1. Do not listen to discouraging words/phrases that can come from people around you.
2. Determine your life`s goals.
3. Be in positive relationships.
4. Invest in your time and money.
5. No one needs to tell you how to live your life.

Similarly, the definition of an “Independent Woman” in the Urban Dictionary is “A woman who pays her own bills, buys her own things, and does not allow a man to affect her stability or self-confidence. She supports herself entirely on her own and is proud to be able to do so.”

When you are perceived as a strong woman, they assume you do not need anything or anyone; and you can bear everything; and will overcome whatever happens. When you are perceived as a strong woman, they look to you to help them carry their burdens and when you share yours, they label you as negative.

16 Signs of Truly Strong Woman

1. 16 Signs of Truly Strong Woman.
2. She is free and she knows what she wants.
3. She is stable.
4. She is not putting herself in the position of a victim.
5. She is aware she is creating her world with her thinking in every moment.
6. She is not scared to show her feelings and show vulnerability.
7. She doesn’t manipulate others.

10 Ways To Gain Independence As A Woman

1. 1 – Spend some time reflecting upon yourself.
2. 2 – Learn to enjoy alone time.
3. 3 – Understand your finances.
4. 4 – Change your vocabulary.
5. 5 – Understand your own wants, needs and desires.
6. 6 – Know your strengths and weaknesses and play to them.
7. 7 – Get to know your personality.
8. 8 – Make yourself a priority.

An independent woman expresses herself freely; she won’t hide the traits of her personality; she doesn’t fear people’s reactions. She lives on her own rules.

Moving from independence to interdependence:

1. Give yourself permission to need your partner. Learn to turn towards them.
2. Communicate your feelings. Express to your partner how you feel in the relationship.
3. Let your partner know what would help you. He/she is likely not a mind reader.