The Power Of A Woman

What Kind of Friend Are You? Quiz

Instructions: Answer each question honestly. Keep track of your answers to see your results at the end.

1. How do you usually respond when a friend is upset?

a) I listen patiently and offer advice if they ask.

b) I try to cheer them up with humor or distraction.

c) I check in occasionally but give them space.

d) I jump in immediately to help fix the problem.

2. How often do you initiate contact with your friends?

a) Almost always—I love keeping in touch.

b) Sometimes—I like balance.

c) Rarely—friends can reach out to me.

d) Only when something important is happening.

3. How do you handle conflict with friends?

a) I talk it out openly and try to find a solution.

b) I avoid conflict and hope it blows over.

c) I reflect quietly and approach it later if needed.

d) I defend my position strongly until it’s resolved.

4. How do you celebrate your friends’ successes?

a) I cheer them on enthusiastically and show genuine excitement.

b) I feel happy for them but keep it casual.

c) I offer support but may feel a little envious sometimes.

d) I organize something special or give them a gift to show I care.

5. How do you react when a friend disappoints you?

a) I forgive easily and communicate my feelings.

b) I make a joke about it to lighten the mood.

c) I distance myself until I feel ready to reconnect.

d) I confront them honestly and expect accountability.

6. How would friends describe you?

a) Loyal and dependable

b) Fun and easygoing

c) Independent and thoughtful

d) Protective and passionate

Results:

Mostly A’s: The Loyal Supporter

You are dependable, attentive, and always there when your friends need you. Your friendships are deep and meaningful.

Mostly B’s: The Fun Companion

You bring laughter, energy, and lightness to friendships. People enjoy your company because you make life fun.

Mostly C’s: The Thoughtful Observer

You are reflective, considerate, and respect boundaries. Your friends value your wisdom and calm presence.

Mostly D’s: The Protective Friend

You care fiercely and are ready to stand up for your friends. People know they can count on you in tough times.

🌸 Survival Plan for Single Mothers After Marriage

🔹 Daily Actions

✅ Stick to a morning & bedtime routine for yourself and the kids (predictability = emotional security).

✅ Do one small act of self-care (stretch, pray, journal, walk, quiet coffee before the kids wake).

✅ Limit emotional triggers — avoid arguing with your ex or doom-scrolling social media.

✅ Express love daily — hug your kids, tell them they’re safe and cared for.

✅ Track your spending — even just writing down what you spent helps you regain financial control.

🔹 Weekly Actions

✅ Plan meals & budgets to avoid last-minute stress.

✅ Household reset – clean, organize, or prep something that makes the week run smoother.

✅ Kids’ time – schedule at least one fun, intentional activity with your kids (game night, movie, baking).

✅ Your time – carve out 1–2 hours for yourself (read, hobby, connect with friends).

✅ Check in with support system – family, friends, or a single mom group. Don’t isolate yourself.

🔹 Monthly Actions

✅ Review your finances (bills, savings, child support, debt). Adjust as needed.

✅ Do a mental health check: Am I overwhelmed? Do I need therapy, a break, or extra support?

✅ Schedule something joyful for you — not just the kids (a dinner out, a class, a spa day if possible).

✅ Revisit co-parenting boundaries — update schedules, clarify communication if needed.

✅ Celebrate small wins — surviving the month as a single mom is no small feat!

🔹 Long-Term Actions

✅ Build financial independence: side hustle, career growth, or schooling if possible.

✅ Strengthen your support network: family, reliable friends, mom groups, mentors.

✅ Heal emotionally: therapy, journaling, or faith practices to process grief and resentment.

✅ Redefine your vision: create new personal and family goals that excite you.

✅ Stay open to future love, but don’t rush — focus on stability and healing first.

🌟 Affirmations for Strength

“I am not broken — I am rebuilding.” “My children are not missing love — they are surrounded by mine.” “Every step I take toward stability is a victory.”

👉 This checklist helps you move from survival mode → stability → growth.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: Allow yourself to feel the sadness, anger, or confusion. It’s important to process these emotions rather than suppress them.
2. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that make you feel good. This could be anything from exercise, reading, or spending time with friends, to pampering yourself.
3. Reflect on the Relationship: Consider what you learned from the relationship and how it has contributed to your personal growth. Understanding what you want and need in future relationships can be empowering.
4. Set Boundaries: If necessary, create distance from your ex to facilitate healing. This can help you focus on yourself without distractions.
5. Cultivate Positive Thoughts: Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with affirmations. Remind yourself of your worth and the qualities that make you unique.
6. Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can provide relief and insight.
7. Explore New Interests: Try new hobbies or activities that excite you. This can boost your confidence and help you discover new aspects of yourself.
8. Be Patient: Healing takes time. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate this process, and understand that it’s okay to take small steps.

Remember, self-love is an ongoing journey, and it’s normal to have ups and downs along the way.

🔒 Safety Plan Checklist

Before a Crisis

Important Documents: Birth certificate, ID, driver’s license, social security card, bank info, immigration papers, protective orders. Make copies if originals can’t be taken. Emergency Bag: Pack small essentials (keys, cash, medications, phone charger, clothes for self/kids). Keep it hidden or with a trusted friend. Safe Contacts: Memorize or write down phone numbers of friends, family, shelters, or hotlines (in case their phone is taken). Finances: Hide small amounts of cash if possible, or open a separate account.

During a Crisis

Code Word: Have a phrase (like “I need the recipe”) to alert a trusted person that they’re in danger. Escape Plan: Know exits in the house, where the keys are, and how to leave quickly with kids/pets. Phone Safety: Keep a charged phone hidden. If calling 911, try to say their location even if they can’t speak fully.

After Leaving

Change Routines: Vary work routes, school pickups, and shopping habits. Secure Technology: Change passwords, update phone settings, turn off location sharing. Legal Protections: Restraining order or protective order if it’s safe to pursue. Support System: Regular check-ins with friends/family, counseling, or support groups.

📞 Crisis Resources (U.S.)

National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788. If children are involved: Call Childhelp at 1-800-422-4453.

👉 The best way you can help is to be the safe, nonjudgmental person they can turn to when they’re ready. Sometimes just knowing someone has their back makes all the difference.

Conversation Starters

Express concern without accusation “I’ve noticed you seem stressed lately. Is everything okay?” “You don’t seem like yourself. I just wanted to check in.” Focus on their feelings, not their partner “How do you feel when you’re with them?” “You deserve to feel safe and respected in your relationship. Do you feel that way?” Offer support without pushing “I’m here for you no matter what. You don’t have to go through anything alone.” “If you ever want to talk or need a safe place, I’ve got you.” Leave the door open “You don’t have to tell me everything right now, but I want you to know you can always come to me.” “Even if you don’t want to talk about it now, I’ll be here whenever you’re ready.”

Things to Avoid Saying

❌ “Why don’t you just leave?” – It can be dangerous for them to leave suddenly. ❌ “If it were me, I wouldn’t put up with that.” – This can sound judgmental. ❌ Criticizing their partner directly – It may push them to defend the abuser.

Signs a Friend Might Be in an Abusive Relationship

Abuse can be emotional, psychological, financial, sexual, or physical—not always visible bruises. Some red flags include:

Behavioral Changes

They withdraw from friends/family, seem isolated. Their partner controls where they go, who they see, or what they wear. They cancel plans often or seem nervous about upsetting their partner. They check in with their partner excessively (texting/calling constantly).

Emotional Changes

They seem anxious, depressed, or on edge. They downplay their partner’s anger, jealousy, or controlling behavior. They appear to have lost confidence or independence.

Physical or Financial Clues

Unexplained injuries or excuses that don’t add up. Difficulty accessing money, transportation, or personal documents. Their partner makes major decisions for them without their input.

Ways You Can Help

The goal isn’t to force them to leave but to support them in feeling safe and empowered.

Listen Without Judgment Let them share at their own pace. Avoid pushing or saying, “You need to leave.” That can make them defensive or unsafe. Affirm Their Feelings Say things like: “I’m concerned because you don’t seem yourself.” Reassure them it’s not their fault. Offer Practical Support Help them make a safety plan (extra keys, emergency cash, important phone numbers). Offer rides, a safe place to stay, or just consistent check-ins. Provide Resources National Domestic Violence Hotline (U.S.): 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788. Local shelters, counseling, or legal aid services. Respect Their Choices Leaving an abusive relationship can be very dangerous. The friend may need time and support to plan safely.

Should You Stay Out of It?

Do NOT ignore it—silence can reinforce the abuser’s control. But don’t try to control your friend either—that mimics the abuser’s behavior. Your role is to be a steady, safe, and supportive presence.

✨ Think of it this way: you can’t “rescue” them, but you can be the lifeline they know is always there.

To foster a more accepting attitude, consider the following approaches:

1. Self-awareness: Recognize your own biases and judgments. Understanding why you feel a certain way can help you address those feelings.
2. Empathy: Try to see things from others’ perspectives. Everyone has their struggles and experiences that shape who they are.
3. Focus on positivity: Celebrate the strengths and successes of others instead of comparing yourself to them.
4. Encourage openness: Create environments where vulnerability is accepted, allowing for authentic conversations that can reduce the need for judgment.
5. Practice self-acceptance: The more you accept yourself, the easier it becomes to accept others.

By cultivating these habits, it becomes easier to appreciate individuality and reduce judgment.

Energy Drainers

1. Negative Attitude: Constant pessimism or critical behavior can sap motivation and enthusiasm.
2. Toxic Relationships: Interactions with people who are consistently unsupportive or manipulative can lead to emotional exhaustion.
3. Overcommitment: Taking on too many responsibilities can lead to burnout and a feeling of being overwhelmed.
4. Lack of Boundaries: Allowing others to infringe on your time and energy can lead to resentment and fatigue.
5. Procrastination: Delaying tasks can create stress and anxiety, draining your energy further.
6. Drama and Conflict: Engaging in or being surrounded by drama can be emotionally exhausting and distracting.
7. Neglecting Self-Care: Ignoring personal health and well-being can lead to physical and emotional fatigue.

Energy Builders

1. Positive Mindset: Maintaining an optimistic outlook can enhance resilience and motivation.
2. Supportive Relationships: Surrounding yourself with encouraging and uplifting people fosters a sense of belonging and strength.
3. Setting Boundaries: Establishing clear limits helps protect your energy and prioritize your well-being.
4. Self-Care Practices: Engaging in activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional health revitalizes energy.
5. Goal Setting: Pursuing meaningful goals creates a sense of purpose and motivation.
6. Mindfulness and Reflection: Taking time to reflect and practice mindfulness can rejuvenate your mind and spirit.
7. Healthy Habits: Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep contribute to overall energy levels.

By identifying and minimizing energy drainers while actively seeking out energy builders, you can create a more fulfilling and vibrant life.

1. Emotional Support: Building connections provides a network of people who can offer empathy and understanding, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.
2. Shared Experiences: Talking about challenges with others can normalize feelings of doubt and burnout, making individuals realize they are not alone in their struggles.
3. Encouragement and Motivation: Connections can offer encouragement, helping to remind individuals of their strengths and potential, which can counteract self-doubt.
4. Collaboration and Teamwork: Working with others fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose, reducing feelings of isolation and reinforcing the idea that you are part of a community.
5. Perspective Shift: Engaging with others allows for the exchange of ideas and perspectives, which can help reframe negative thoughts and reduce doubt.
6. Accountability: Staying connected with others can create a sense of accountability, motivating individuals to take care of their mental health and well-being.
7. Stress Relief: Socializing with others can be a great way to relieve stress, providing a break from burnout and helping to recharge mentally and emotionally.
8. Increased Resilience: Building strong connections can enhance resilience, making it easier to navigate challenges and recover from setbacks.

Overall, fostering connections not only helps alleviate feelings of isolation and doubt but also creates a supportive environment that can significantly reduce burnout, promoting overall well-being.

1. Shift Your Perspective: View change as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat. A positive mindset can help you approach new challenges with curiosity and excitement.
2. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the change. Understanding the reasons behind it and its potential impact can reduce uncertainty and help you feel more in control.
3. Set Clear Goals: Define what you want to achieve in the face of change. Setting clear, actionable goals can provide direction and motivation as you adapt.
4. Be Open to Learning: Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning. Be willing to acquire new skills or knowledge that can help you navigate the changes effectively.
5. Practice Flexibility: Adaptability is key when facing new challenges. Be willing to adjust your plans and expectations as circumstances evolve.
6. Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues for support. Sharing your experiences and feelings can provide perspective and encouragement.
7. Take Small Steps: Break down the process of adapting into manageable steps. Focus on making incremental changes rather than tackling everything at once.
8. Reflect on Past Experiences: Recall previous instances where you successfully adapted to change. This reflection can boost your confidence and remind you of your resilience.
9. Develop Coping Strategies: Identify techniques that help you manage stress and uncertainty, such as mindfulness, exercise, or journaling. These can be invaluable during periods of change.
10. Stay Patient: Understand that adapting to change takes time. Be patient with yourself as you navigate the transition, and recognize that it’s normal to experience discomfort.
11. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress can reinforce your ability to adapt and motivate you to keep going.

By embracing change and approaching new challenges with an open mind and a proactive attitude, you’ll be better equipped to thrive in any situation.