Buffy-buff = Y?

We all know that Buffy was granted inhuman strength at the time of her calling, but physical strength alone is not what makes Buffy so successful in her slaying. The Watcher’s Council puts Buffy’s skills to the test in “Helpless;” they claim “A slayer is not just physical prowess. She must have cunning, imagination, a confidence derived from self-reliance.” Buffy passes the test, proving that she is in possession of all these skills and more.

Beyond these requisite skills that can easily be discerned from watching her battles, Buffy also gains strength from her personality and perspective. She is clear-headed and quick thinking as you can see when she is fighting the crazed vampire in “Helpless.” She is strong-willed and knows how to use her emotions. The support system of her friends and the love she has for her family serve to make her even stronger, driving her past what she might have been able to achieve alone. All this is clear in “What’s My Line Part 2” when she is talking with Kendra.

“The things you do and have I was taught distract from my calling. Friends, school, even family... Emotions are weakness, Buffy. You shouldn’t entertain them.”
“Kendra my emotions give me power. They’re total assets.”
“Maybe. For you. But I prefer to keep an even mind.”
“I guess that explains it... When we were fighting, you’re amazing. You’re technique, it’s flawless. It’s better than mine... Still, I would have kicked your butt in the end, and you know why? No imagination... You’re good but power alone isn’t enough...”
“...I could wipe the floor with you right now!”
“That would be anger you’re feeling... The anger gives you fire. A slayer needs that.”

Buffy’s emotions provide her with the drive she needs to get things done. These emotions come from love for her family and friends, from her care for total strangers (Alan in “Consequences”), from her sense of morality (most evident in her struggle during “Bad Girls”), and from her need to see justice done. Buffy’s strengths go far beyond any normal slayer’s because she has far more than they do; she has friends who help her fulfill her duty, and she has a personal attachment to seeing that duty fulfilled.