Chapter 1: The Paradox of Strength

Many might label a woman lifting a 40kg dumbbell in competition as 'strong.' As a female powerlifter and strongwoman who has achieved success in competitions, I openly share my journey through social media and training clips. I engage with many, yet I find myself uncomfortable with the term 'strong.'

The truth is, while genetics play a role in strength—something science supports—I believe that many people may view me as 'strong' even before I dedicated myself to this sport. I've seen numerous athletes express frustration when a newcomer seems to surpass their achievements with what appears to be less effort.

Success is subjective. Some women might spend years striving to reach a 100kg squat, while I achieved that milestone within my first month under a strength coach’s guidance. It pains me to hear other women diminish their accomplishments by comparing themselves to others. Just because someone can squat over 250kg, like Amanda Lawrence, doesn't negate the strength of another woman who has progressed from a 40kg to a 120kg squat over time. This comparison makes me question the usefulness of the term 'strong,' as it often leads to unhealthy comparisons rather than celebrating individual growth.

Even at my peak, I recognize that I won't match the strength of elite male lifters, and that doesn't diminish the effort I've put into my training. I focus on my own journey rather than comparing myself to others.

Chapter 2: The Quest for Meaning

I dislike the notion that I may have already 'arrived.' This isn’t rooted in self-doubt; rather, I pride myself on being resilient, resourceful, and determined. However, I feel far from my personal definition of strength, even after two and a half years in this sport.

I have no interest in quick victories or settling for easily achievable goals. The complexity of challenges is what captivates me. I doubt there will ever be a moment where I can confidently state, "Now I am strong enough." If that milestone existed, I certainly wouldn't expect to be anywhere near it after just two years.

My motivation stems from living in alignment with my values rather than reaching a specific goal.

Chapter 3: Rethinking 'Talent'

As a child, I often heard adults attribute my achievements to 'talent' when the reality was shaped by my immigrant upbringing. I excelled in various subjects, but I knew my success was a result of hard work and discipline instilled in me by my education-focused Polish immigrant mother.

My mother, unable to pursue higher education herself, ensured that education was my top priority. After school, instead of playing, I practiced violin, studied algebra, and engaged in various activities. When I passed my grade six violin exam at age eleven, others remarked on my 'talent,' yet I understood that my progress came from hours of dedication rather than a gift.

I even faced criticism for my artistic skills in school, with a teacher highlighting my lack of ability as a lesson for others. This experience reinforced my belief that talent is often misunderstood and misrepresented.

I once became obsessed with art, dedicating late nights to painting and drawing. My skills developed rapidly, yet I often reflected on my humble beginnings. Despite being labeled 'talented,' I knew that my progress was a product of relentless practice.

The fixed mindset, which promotes the idea that abilities are innate, harms both children and adults. It discourages effort and resilience, suggesting that some individuals are simply doomed to be mediocre.

Chapter 4: The Importance of a Growth Mindset

The issue with labels like 'strong,' 'clever,' or 'artistic' is that they often imply a fixed status rather than potential for growth. I prefer to frame my journey as a series of conscious choices aimed at cultivating positive behaviors.

In powerlifting, athletes may become overly fixated on numbers, measuring success through minor weight changes. Many struggle with this mindset, tying their worth to outcomes rather than appreciating the growth process.

Embracing a growth mindset means recognizing that worth isn't determined by a single victory or defeat, but by learning from each experience. It emphasizes the importance of daily efforts over final results.

So, please refrain from calling me strong. While I'm working on becoming stronger, I aspire to embody qualities like hard work, tenacity, and kindness. Most importantly, I wish to uplift others in their journeys, celebrating their achievements alongside my own. That, to me, encapsulates the true essence of life and sport.