We spoke with New York Times bestselling author and foundation founder Lauren Scruggs to hear about her incredible journey and find out more about her latest endeavors (of which there are many!). Scruggs has written two books—Still Lolo, the story of her horrific accident losing a limb to a plane’s spinning propellor, and Your Beautiful Heart—and recently launched the Lauren Scruggs Kennedy Foundation, which exists to bring hope, restore dignity, and ignite faith in girls and women with limb loss by providing beautiful cosmetic coverings for prostheses. Alongside shark attack survivor Bethany Hamilton, she started an annual retreat for girls who have lost limbs to create community and a safe space where they can encourage each other on their journeys. She also has a lifestyle blog, a dry shampoo company called Stranded, and a guide to clean living called The Clean Sweep. Here, she tells us what being bold means to her, how she’s faced life’s challenges, and how Birdies make her feel bright, bold, and confident.
What is your definition of bold and how do you incorporate this into your day-to-day?
To me, the definition of bold is using your voice, confidently and respectfully, to stand up for what you believe in. And it also means powering through tough times in life.
Describe a challenge in your life. How did you boldly overcome it?
I was in a very severe accident almost nine years ago. I was motivated to take one day at a time, with the perspective that pain doesn't last forever, and to encourage others through my story. I also learned to celebrate the victories, even if they were small.
Who or what inspires you to be bold?
My husband really inspires me to be bold. He lives in a way that is incredibly courageous, and he always shares his perspective in a welcoming way that offers a safe space for differing viewpoints. He also stands up for things in such a loving and peaceful way.
How can women feel bolder and more confident in their lives?
I think women can feel bolder by discovering and embracing who they are, engaging in their passions and skills, and loving and encouraging others.
How do Birdies make you feel bright, bold, and confident?
They remind me that I can take on my day; that I am empowered and able!
Lauren is part of our Bold Women series, featuring and celebrating women who embody what it means to be bold inside and out. In this series, they share their stories of success and how Birdies help them soar.
