aguantadora

So, with all—or even some—of these experiences in our background, we have had to hone our aguantadora survival skills.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008

Growing up in West Fresno, California, a very poor, African-American and Latino community, Estela Martínez was forced to become an aguantadora in order to pursue her dreams.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008

An aguantadora is someone who puts up with “it” and keeps going—“it” being whatever life throws our way.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008

A mature and supportive relationship—whether it be with a mate, a significant other, or a friend—will be invaluable to you as you practice being a successful aguantadora and going after your desired goals.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008

The concept of the aguantadora is so strictly a Latina notion that there is not even an accurate way to translate it into English.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008

That kind of focused resolve is the essence of the aguantadora.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008

This seven-step written exercise will help you get in touch with your personal aguantadora history.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008

Being an aguantadora means that we have the determination to be who we are meant to be, to prevail.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008

I had to be an aguantadora in order to ignore the chismes that can be continuous and exaggerated—and to withstand the exhaustion of touring, the long hours, and the months when work might be scarce.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008

At this point in her life Estela met the person who would help her follow the path she had set early on as a determined aguantadora.

Latina Power! Dr. Ana Nogales with Laura Golden Bellotti 2008