When and who started the movement for strong, independent women? Why are today’s women so determined to be strong and self-sufficient? The pursuit of strength and independence appears to be a new trend, with women taking pride in the label and striving to achieve these qualities. They work 9-5 jobs, aspiring to higher positions while raising families and juggling multiple responsibilities. Their desire for financial independence and self-sufficiency is admirable. However, let us delve into the movement’s origins and shed some light on its roots.

The Birth of the movement:

The feminist movement of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries was critical in challenging gender norms and sparking discussions about equality and freedom. It arose from the struggles and efforts of remarkable women’s rights activists such as Susan B. Anthony,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_B._Anthony- Elizabeth Cady Stanton,https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_Cady_Stanton

.and countless others.It was critical for women to be able to pursue education, participate in various arts (which had previously been restricted), and eventually enter the workforce. Women can now assert themselves and pursue their dreams thanks to societal advancements and increased gender equality.

The Impact and Evolution of Women in Society:

Women have evolved in society, taking on higher positions in the workplace and making significant contributions. Their journey has been remarkable, empowering other women along the way. We should genuinely respect their achievements.

Let us now look at the Struggles and Obstacles:

Women are frequently pressured by society to be strong, invulnerable, and self-sufficient at all times. This can result in feelings of exhaustion, burnout, and apprehension about appearing weak when seeking help or displaying vulnerability.

Despite this progress, I’ve met many financially independent women who are exhausted. They want to be a part of a tribe and not be responsible for everything on their own. Perhaps we are afraid to admit that we are not always Strong Independent Women (SIWs). We long for rest, support, and the chance to be cherished. We want to pursue careers and passions that are meaningful to us, and we want to share our stories without the label “if you are strong, you can do it all.” It is essential to acknowledge these desires without viewing them as weaknesses.

Do We Really Want to Be Known as Strong, Independent Women? Let’s take a closer look at what it means to be a strong independent woman and what qualities one should possess. Consider whether you embody all of these characteristics and whether you truly want to be labeled as a strong independent woman. Or, at this point, is it simply societal pressure?

Let’s look at the characteristics of a Strong Independent Woman:

1. Self-Confidence: Believing in oneself and having faith in one’s abilities.
2. Financial Independence: Being capable of taking care of oneself financially.
3. Autonomy: Not relying on a partner for support.
4. Assertiveness: Taking charge of one’s sexual needs and desires.
5. Independence from Parents: Being self-reliant and not dependent on parents.
6. Unapologetic Pursuit of Dreams: Chasing aspirations without hesitation.
7. Willingness to Seek Help: Not being afraid to ask for assistance when needed.
8. Fearlessness in Love: Being open to love and forming meaningful connections.
9. Embracing Solitude: Finding happiness in doing things alone.
10. Establishing Boundaries: Setting clear limits to protect oneself.
11. Helping Others: Supporting and empowering fellow women.
12. Self-Awareness: Recognizing faults and insecurities.
13. Valuing Self: Acknowledging one’s worth and prioritizing self-care.

However, can we truly choose the identity we want to embody? Can we be financially independent, have our own opinions and lifestyles, while also being in a partnership where mutual respect and compromise thrive?

Humans are a tribe by nature, and we expect our relationships to be a partnership where both members love, respect, and above all compromise with each other for the betterment of the union.True strength comes from a willingness to be vulnerable enough to tell your partner that you are much better person with them in your life, and that you love and appreciate them for it. 

I personally struggled when I left my corporate job. I found myself grappling with the notion that I was no longer financially productive and that I needed to rely solely on my husband and the masculine aspect when it came to providing for the family. It was only when I embraced the realization that this belief was not solely mine, but rather a product of societal expectations, that I finally found peace. I came to understand that my worth is not inherently tied to financial contributions alone.

So the next time you tell yourself, “I am a strong independent woman,” remind yourself that you are worthy regardless of what judgment or limiting belief you have. If you notice that you have any limiting beliefs, such as “I am never enough,” seek help from a coach or a psychologist.

https://theinnerguide.net/#calendly to make an appointment with our coach.

Finally, the journey of becoming a strong independent woman is deeply personal and varied. There is no universal definition or path. Women must prioritize self-care, seek help when needed, and recognize their worth beyond societal labels. The key is to embrace authenticity and strike a balance that aligns with one’s personal values and aspirations. Let us inspire one another to redefine strength, encourage one another to pursue personal growth, and celebrate the uniqueness of each woman’s journey.