Whose fault is it anyway?

As we all soak in the essence of International Women's Day, it's crucial to acknowledge that patriarchy often stands as the chief culprit, placing barriers between women and their rights. However, dwelling on the blame game serves no one, and the onus lies on us women to identify the challenges obstructing our empowerment and find proactive solutions. Recognizing that any form of empowerment is intricately linked to financial independence, let's come together on the 113th anniversary of International Women's Day to unravel the hurdles hindering our journey and explore potential solutions.

?Empowerment in Our Shifting World:

In the dynamic tapestry of India's evolving social landscape, financial freedom isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. It's about reclaiming choices, dismantling stereotypes, and sculpting a society where we stand tall as equals. Despite the surge in education levels, the number of working women is slipping. Acknowledging the role of patriarchy is vital, but dwelling on blame won't propel us forward. Instead, let's delve into the challenges, weaving in solutions to illuminate our path to financial empowerment on this International Women's Day.

?Breaking Chains – Cultural Style:

Culture hands us a narrative, defining our roles. Breaking free isn't just personal growth; it's rewriting the rules for generations after us. The challenge? Challenging traditions without feeling alienated. Let's foster open conversations, redefine roles, and create spaces that honour both tradition and ambition.

?A Lifesaver in the Ups and Downs:

Life in India is a rollercoaster – economic fluctuations, health surprises, and an endless list of family duties. Financial freedom is our superhero cape, providing peace when everything's up in the air. The challenge? Balancing familial expectations and personal aspirations. Advocating for flexible work arrangements, acknowledging shared responsibilities, and creating support systems within our communities are steps toward the answer.

Dreaming Big – The Entrepreneurial Way:

Have you ever felt that itch to start something on your own? India's entrepreneurial vibes are buzzing, and financial freedom is the key. The challenge? Limited access to capital. Advocating for equal access, pushing for women-specific loan programs, and building networks for entrepreneurship are crucial steps.

?Let’s Talk About That Pay Gap:

The gender pay gap is real, hitting us where it hurts. Equipping ourselves with negotiation skills, seeking mentorship, and advocating for transparent pay structures are our tools for change.

Juggling Tradition and Ambition:

Juggling tradition and ambition is a never-ending balancing act. Fostering a supportive environment that values both family and professional commitments is the solution.

Cracking the Financial Literacy Code:

Investing, saving, financial planning – it sounds like adulting on steroids. Empowering ourselves through education, seeking guidance, and normalizing conversations about money breaks down this barrier.

Unveiling Capital Access Mysteries:

Getting funds for our dreams feels like solving a mystery. Advocating for policies that ensure equal access, creating women-specific loan programs, and building strong networks for female entrepreneurs can shift the blame.

Untangling the Retirement Knot:

Retirement planning – it sounds dull but is essential. Prioritizing retirement planning, seeking advice, and exploring employer-sponsored retirement plans lay the groundwork for a secure future.

So, as we celebrate the 113th anniversary of International Women's Day, let's delve into this personal journey toward financial freedom, acknowledging the challenges without playing the blame game. Our struggles are unique, but our strengths are unparalleled. Here's to us, to our stories, and to a future where financial freedom isn't just a buzzword but a reality for every woman in our incredible nation. Cheers to embracing the chaos and conquering it together!

Article by: Loveleen Sahrawat