All women want to be perceived as strong and fearless, but most aren’t just born with an innate sense of self-confidence or resilience.

No, strong women develop over time. They are ever-evolving, always striving to be the best version of themselves. Like diamonds, the best women are forged under pressure. They are tough on the outside, but radiate from the inside.

Aristotle once said,

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”

To that end, here are 14 habits strong, fearless women share:

1. They own up to their mistakes.

Fearless women don’t blame others for their mistakes or try to skirt blame. They own up to their actions and work to remedy any missteps.

2. They learn from the past, instead of dwelling on it.

Nothing good ever comes from living in the past.

Strong women don’t dwell on things they can’t change; they live in the present and leave the past behind them, where it belongs.

3. They prioritize health.

Truly wise women know they’re only as strong as their bodies. They prioritize their health, both physical and mental, above all else.

4. They make bold changes.

Strong women aren’t afraid to start over, go against the crowd or try new things. They welcome change and look at challenges as opportunities for growth.

5. They praise others, instead of knocking them down.

Bullying, talking behind people’s backs or putting people down is something only cowards do. It takes real strength to lift people up and exhibit empathy.

6. They accept criticism.

No one is perfect. It takes strength of character and humility to accept constructive criticism without getting defensive.

7. They educate themselves.

Truly fearless women take advantage of any and every opportunity to learn, well into old age. They realize not every woman is extended that same privilege and they never take their education for granted.

8. They face problems head-on.

It’s easy to sweep problems under the rug and hope they’ll fix themselves, but it takes strength to face them head-on, regardless of the outcome.

9. They know their worth.

Strong women know their worth, both personally and professionally. They ask for raises when they deserve them, Satya Nadella be damned, and they don’t entertain suitors who are only half-interested.

10. They walk away from toxic situations.

Fearless women know when to remove themselves from toxic friends or situations. It may be hard to walk away, but it’s always the right choice.

11. They love themselves first.

In an aircraft, you’re told to put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others. This is also true in life and love.

Strong women know they have to love and take care of themselves, first, before being able to do the same for children or significant others.

12. They think before speaking.

Emotions rule too many people, and these people often fail to think before they speak. Strong women know better.

Take Zendaya, for instance, who took the time to formulate a thoughtful response to Giuliana Rancic’s comments, which allowed her to gain worldwide respect.

13. They can politely disagree.

Anyone can have an opinion, but not everyone can articulate said opinion in a way that is respectful of others who disagree.

14. They pick their battles.

Road rage, petty arguments and the words, “I told you so,” are all things strong women generally stay away from.

We can’t all exhibit all of these qualities all the time, and it’s okay to be human and falter.

The important part is making personal growth a priority and approaching every day as a new opportunity to let the world hear you roar!

Article comes from Elite Daily by Jen Ruiz.