1.) Leslie Knope, Parks and Recreation
Amy Poehler brought to life one of the best female characters in our time with this waffle-loving public servant. Leslie is the definition of women empowerment with her hard won career in government and going home to her supportive hubby and kids. This girl’s ambition makes her accomplish double the work, whether it’s making her friends memorable scrapbooks or running a campaign, she’s always on the go. Her optimism and will to go on in the face of adversaries will always make you feel really great and just glad to be woman.
2.) Hermione Granger, Harry Potter Series
We’ve known her since she was that little girl with frizzy hair throwing her hand up in the air with a firece determination. Hermione is the perfect example of women kicking ass and saving the day. All her reading and research always seems to pay off when she’s saving Harry and Ron (literally in every movie all the time). She’s loyal, fierce, and has had everyone pining to be a Gryffindor since 2001, while also setting too high of expectations for puberty (thanks Emma Watson).
3.) Daenerys Targaryen, Game of Thrones
We have watched this Khaleesi go from a timid girl controlled by all the men in her life, to becoming one of the most empowering and strong female characters of our time. From leading her own empire to setting slaves free to convincing the most bro-type males into following her, she has become a dose of inspiration to all women who need to tell off men who have wronged them. How do you say, bad-ass in Dothraki?
4.) Mulan
Yes, I’m bringing back the 90’s with a dose of this amazing female. She is one of my all time favorite Disney characters. Mulan is the definition of bravery and sacrifice. She proves that she can out man all the men and defies convention at every turn. This warrior shows everyone women are just as capable as men and just as brave. She’s willing to risk herself for her father and her fellow soldiers. Mulan is Disney gold and we needed more of her yesterday.
5.) Olivia Pope, Scandal
Olivia is the definition of success. This woman gets stuff done while wearing pants suits probably more expensive than my rent. She has a brain to rival anyone in D.C. and has her own firm that she rocks. Also the president fell in love with her, so she must be doing something right. Never shy to defend her beliefs and a hard worker to the core, Olivia gives us belief that we can do anything with enough dedication.
6.) Jane Eyre
Jane was a woman of the past who didn’t compromise her beliefs to the restrictive society she lived in. Always challenging conventions and letting her voice be heard, she was a pioneer of equality. Even as a girl, she fought against stereotypes and used her ambition to get her where she wanted to be. Jane always gives that boost of inspiration considering she did all of this in the 1800s. Kudos, girl.
7.) Brienne of Tarth, Game Of Thrones
Brienne is so fierce that she makes everyone cower in their boots. She is never going to give up on anything she sets her mind to or a promise she makes. Brienne is a loyal friend and spectacular warrior, who sends her enemies running. Whenever you need to feel like you could bend steel in your hands (or fight off a bear), turn to Bri.
8.) Claire Beachaump Randall Fraser, Outlander
This time traveling, WWII combat nurse’s resilience never ceases to amaze me. I mean, this woman has been through everything. She’s survived being thrown into the past, multiple wars, losing children and husbands, but she always manages to pick up the pieces and put her life back together as best she can. Claire manages to thrive in the past while putting men in their place with her quick wit. Oh, and she breaks into a prison to save her hubby. Honestly, she is just major #goals.
Do these characters inspire you too? What other female characters give you inspiration?
