How many times today did you take a defensive stance, feeling like you had to protect all that you have worked for? Did you find yourself telling tiny lies or deflecting the line of questioning coming from another? Maybe you just shut down and decided not to share what was truly on your mind in an effort to avoid being perceived as weak? I get it, you want to appear that you are unstoppable and have it all together. You feel the need to be a physical barrier between where you find yourself and those you perceive would like to tear it all down. However, guarding is a shield and not the way to project true confidence. You stand more of a chance of holding your ground if you can fill your surroundings with unbridled self-assurance. So, stop putting so much energy into defending your stance. If you truly want to safe-guard what you have built or fought for, fortify with bold pride and steadfast composure! Tuesday is a new day, my friends. Shift the tone of your conviction and let the world know that you are truly a force to be reckoned with.