Does music move you like it does me? When that familiar song starts playing that is one of your favorites do you start humming the lyrics, or singing, or do you even get the urge to start moving around to the beat? You’ve likely seen the flash mobs where one person in a crowd starts out by spontaneously bursting into a song and dance number and people are moved to join in. The movement can grow into hundreds within minutes as people simply can’t help but join in.

Recently I heard a song that moved me, to the point that it is often playing in my head. I had the pleasure of being one of the keynote speakers at a Business Leader’s Conference and the event planners chose an introduction song for me. Rather than the boring introduction that we often receive of someone reading our bio, instead this creative group of organizers chose an inspirational song for each speaker as they were being introduced. The song they chose for me was Warrior by Hannah Kerr. As I walked to the stage, I was so moved by the music and the lyrics that I looked up the song when I got home.

Here are some of the powerful lyrics:

  • You’ll never stop me, I’m a warrior
  • Stare down the face of fear
  • In the dark there is light
  • When I fall down, I get stronger
  • Every scar on my skin is a beautiful reminder of a moment when I didn’t give in

What does the word “warrior” mean? Merriam-Webster defines as:

A person who fights in battles and is known for having courage and skill.

Let’s face it, life can be a battlefield. It is not “if” we will face challenges, it is “when.” I have faced some significant challenges in my own life, one of the hardest times as a single mother trying to hold together the broken pieces of my life. I remember feeling exhausted and overwhelmed trying to be keep up with everything. There were times that I felt so alone, discouraged, and hopeless.

Change happened because I didn’t give up. Even though I had been kicked down, I could choose a perspective that would lead me forward, versus one that would hold me back. I made the choice to boldly face my fears, and embrace my faith. It wasn’t easy and some days it was a minute by minute choice. But I kept working at it. I created success habits and disciplines to improve my mindset, to take better care of myself, and to focus on my most important priorities.

If you find yourself in a place where you are struggling; where you feel discouraged and aren’t sure of the path forward, remind yourself of this important truth: You are a warrior. You have the strength to overcome. Your power can come from your pain. Sometimes it takes us getting to a point where we finally say, “no more.” This realization will lead us to change and a better life. Our wounds can turn to scars, and these can be beautiful reminders that we did not give in.

I am a warrior and will shout this from the rooftops if I need to that you can be too. You have the power to overcome. It is your choice to take your life back and create a better future. When you make this happen, the positivity of your actions begins to spread to those around you. It becomes a movement, and others will want to join in.

The today you’re having does not have to be your tomorrow. You’ve got this. The choice is yours, and I am here to cheer you on.

You are a warrior.

Author(s)

  • Janelle Bruland

    Entrepreneur, Leadership Coach, Author, Speaker, Podcast Host, & Co-Founder of Legacy Leader

    Janelle Bruland is an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and high-performance coach who inspires others to live impactful and successful lives. She is Founder and CEO of Management Services Northwest, a company she started in her living room in 1995 and has grown into an industry leading company, named one of the Fastest Growing Private Companies by Inc. magazine. The CPO of Microsoft, Mike Simms, describes her as a true pioneer in her field. Janelle is also the Co-Founder of Legacy Leader, a leadership development company that teaches business professionals how to build a legacy, transform their leadership, and love their life. She is the author of The Success Lie: 5 Simple Truths to Overcome Overwhelm and Achieve Peace of Mind.
    Janelle is a lifelong resident of Whatcom County, Washington and is married with five children. In her leisure time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, golf, as well as keeping fit through various sports and activities.