I love the 4th of July in Wisconsin with its parades and picnics, flags and fireworks and brimming good feelings of strength, pride and freedom. Happy Independence, Wisconsin women!

What? You’re not excited about this holiday? You don’t do parades or picnics?

Alas, too many women today feel somewhat less than jubilant this 4th of July. Economic conditions have increased their feelings of vulnerability, stress and worry.

What’s free, after all, about the pressures of job, home, relationships or families?

Your choice, that’s what. I know this sounds simple-minded and may not seem relevant to your current circumstances, but it is critically important to recognize that you do have choices. Lots of them.

The first begins with the way you think about challenge. Who is the boss of your life? You are, of course. You may feel strong influences from your boss at work, your spouse or significant other and even your kids and their demands, but you are the only one who decides how to invest your time each day. You are the only one who controls what goes into your head and stays there. You are the only one who sees life through your eyes and knows what you wish it to be.

In that regard, you are in the very same place as those who influence you so strongly. You influence them, too! I often wonder what life would be like if we could share what we see and what we want in a spirit of curiosity and wonder, rather than with the often unspoken demands or expectations we place on one another?

You can change this particular aspect of your life, starting right now. It’s not easy and it won’t be quick, but the first step is sorting out for yourself where you are, where you want to go, and how you want your life to be each day. Think about the things you do that make you feel happy and strong. Write them down and do more of them!

Some women love to get up with the sun to go for a walk or run. They feel strong and energized afterwards. Others like to make lists before going to bed or with their first cup of coffee or tea in the morning. This helps them feel organized and purposeful. Some like to read and meditate each day for the feelings of serenity and acceptance it brings. Still others love to interact with kids, neighbors, or friends because it reminds them that we’re all in this together.

Whatever makes you feel healthy and strong and whole, do it! Then share your good feelings with the people you love. Don’t expect them to do what you do or even to change their behavior one way or another. Just share your happiness. You’ll find that it eases a lot of tension!

As you feel more grounded, think logically through your issues. What is going on and who is involved? What would you like to change about the situation? Remember, you can only change you! Bring your best self to each situation and do what makes you proud. Forgive mistakes, both yours and others. Don’t sweat the small stuff!

Despite some very challenging circumstances this 4th of July, please remember that you are free to be yourself. Dream a little. Work on what matters. Smile at yourself when you accomplish even small goals. You’re creating your life one day at a time. Make it worth your best effort!

In celebration of independence, here are some words of inspiration by women who understood freedom.

"Believe in yourself. You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you stop to look fear in the face. You must do that which you think you cannot do." - Eleanor Roosevelt

"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired and success achieved." - Helen Keller

“Whatever my individual desires were to be free, I was not alone. There were many others who felt the same way. “- Rosa Parks

“All great achievements require time. If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.” - Maya Angelou