This morning as I gazed out my window at the calm waters of Lake Michigan, I couldn’t help but reflect on the challenges many of us face in our lifetimes. Like you, I have navigated through turbulent and choppy waters, sometimes feeling like I was gasping for air as I struggled to stay afloat. However, I never considered giving up. Instead, I persevered and focused on rising above the storm. Did you?
I recently watched the Netflix series The Bear, a character study of chefs and relatives in a restaurant. In my humble opinion, it was a captivating portrayal of resilience and empowerment, which deeply resonated with me.
One of the female characters epitomized empowerment. She was fired at age 46 after working in a restaurant for 15 years. She was married with one son. Her marriage was solid. Her husband was a doorman at a hotel who had not been given a raise. She pounded the pavement, knocked on door after door, and was turned down time after time, but she never gave up. She was not afraid to break through societal barriers and kept striving despite setbacks.
Her resilience and refusal to be defeated are a testament to her tenacity and empowerment. After weeks of hard knocks, she became one of the chefs at The Bear restaurant. She won on two fronts — she had a job and she proved to herself that she could do what she set her mind to, and that is what matters — she was an empowered woman, achieving empowerment and her personal goals through resilience.
My Definition of an Empowered Woman
Let me begin by saying that knowing yourself is both crucial and difficult.
An empowered woman is someone who is in control of her own life. She has the ability to take charge and create positive change. She can make choices and take action. She has self-worth. This woman can be calm in the face of her storm. She is an actionable woman who is in control of her destiny. She knows what she is about and does not need to ask permission because she is not affected by what others say; she is capable of making her own decisions and leading herself. Knowing oneself as a person is essential for empowerment. An empowered woman is able to communicate her needs and boundaries effectively. She also recognizes her potential as a leader.
“Will yourself to be the best version of yourself and you will feel your empowerment. It is worth everything.” — Honey Good
Empowerment gives a woman exhilarating and personal freedom, allowing her to recognize and harness her own power. This brings a sense of self-worth and empowerment that is truly transformative. Are you an empowered woman?
Let me end by saying that knowing yourself is both crucial and difficult.
How Does a Woman Empower Herself?
Female empowerment begins in childhood. When we are able to face our adversities and overcome them in our youth, we begin to build layers of self-confidence. Building confidence through self-awareness and engaging in solo activities is essential for developing independence and personal empowerment. Empowering oneself also involves taking the initiative to educate and teach oneself new skills, fostering lifelong learning and growth. The value of teaching and self-directed learning cannot be overstated, as they are key parts of personal development.
As we build confidence, the desire to achieve grows. The fear of failure is replaced with a yearning to face whatever is holding us back with confidence and endurance. We begin to prioritize what is important and this enhances positive personal growth. Empowered women never stop learning and are always seeking new knowledge. Taking learning into your own hands is a crucial aspect of empowerment. This marvelous experience will motivate and inspire you in your journey toward empowerment.
I was curious how many women feel empowered so I did a little research and found a statistic that stated that women are only empowered to achieve 60% of their full potential globally! This highlights the ongoing need to achieve equality and gender equality as fundamental components of women’s empowerment.
What Stops a Woman From Reaching Her Full Potential?
Many women are busy with low-value goals. Are you one of these women? Ask yourself if you are stretching to your full potential. Are you following your passion or are you paralyzed?
Leaving behind years of working in a career, suffering from the empty-nest syndrome and aging, and feeling invisible takes us out of our normal routine. Not to mention, how we feel about ourselves. Therefore, take time to reassess your needs. Sometimes, changes in a relationship can prompt personal growth and greater self-awareness, helping you understand your strengths and identity. I asked myself the above questions when I recently faced a life change.
After determining what would give me great satisfaction, I followed my passion and set a goal. Supportive friends and strong relationships are essential in empowering women to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles.
I came across an email from an organization that set me in a new direction. Without knowing anyone in the organization, I picked up the phone, listened to press one, press two, etc. Having a friend to support you during a tough time can make a significant difference, and building these relationships helps create a supportive network.
I called the organization cold turkey and, sweet reader, that led to opening a new chapter in my life. My passion for the organization and hard work has almost led me to the finish line. My dream is to go on a national board of a nonprofit. Remember, overcoming challenges is easier when you feel good about yourself and seek reassurance when needed.
Here are a few tips I follow before I dive into a new chapter of life:
- Am I passionate about the new adventure?
- What is my goal?
- List the short and long-term goals
- Erase all fear of trying something new.
- Challenge and persevere when the going gets tough.
- Make a home run.
Emotions play a large part in personal empowerment.
The following emotions prevent me from casting doubt:
- Passion
- Hope
- Will
- Authenticity
- Faith
- Gratitude
- Listen to my heart.
Creating a Support Network to Empower Women
Empowered women know that true strength often comes from the support and encouragement of others. While personal growth and self-confidence are essential, building a network of like-minded women can be the key to unlocking your full potential. An empowered woman understands that by lifting up other women, she not only enriches her own life but also helps create a more equitable and supportive society.
Creating a support network to empower women starts with connection. Whether it’s through mentorship programs, professional development workshops, or online communities, these spaces allow women to share their stories, challenges, and ideas. When we come together, we gain new perspectives, learn new skills, and develop the courage to face life’s challenges head-on. Empowering girls and women at such a young age can set the stage for a lifetime of confidence and achievement.
Mentors, empowerment coaches, and community leaders play a vital role in guiding women through both personal and professional journeys. By sharing their experiences and offering guidance, they help other women feel confident in their own skin and remind them of their self-worth. In recent years, the rise of online platforms and local groups has made it easier than ever to find support, no matter where you are in the world.
Empowering women is not just about individual achievement—it’s about creating a ripple effect that benefits families, communities, and future generations. When we empower women and girls, we invest in a brighter, more just world. The story of Malala Yousafzai, the courageous Pakistani activist who fought for girls’ education at a young age, is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we support and believe in one another. Her determination and self-love inspired millions and proved that one girl’s voice can change lives and challenge society’s expectations.
Despite the progress made in recent years, women continue to face obstacles such as limited access to education, economic opportunities, and persistent gender-based discrimination. That’s why it’s so important to create networks that foster self-love, build self-confidence, and encourage continuous learning. By supporting each other, we help every woman realize her full potential and remind her that she is never alone in her journey.
Let’s work together to empower women everywhere—by sharing our knowledge, offering support, and celebrating each other’s achievements. When we unite, we create communities where every woman and girl can thrive, achieve her dreams, and contribute to a more equal and empowered world.
Dear sweet reader, the world is your oyster. Follow your passions. Respect your potential. Strike the word fear out of your vocabulary. Don’t be lazy. Follow your heart.
Reach for your star and own it. It will take work, faith, skinned knees, disappointments, and sometimes, sobs. But, will yourself to be the best version of yourself and you will feel your empowerment. It is worth everything. Amen.
Are you following your passions to empower yourself? If not, what would help you along? Please let me know in the comments below.
Honey Good is a mentor for women, empowering them to live vibrant and visible lives after 50. For more personal posts, follow her on Facebook. To inquire about working with Honey, please email her at collabs@honeygood.com.
Hi, Honey! At this point I am planning to move to a continuing care community to simplify my life; I will be closer to my kidney dialysis clinic. Will keep my little rambler for awhile rather than selling. Planning to do a gradual move & immerse myself there for at least 3 trial months. Thanx for sharing about empowered women!!
Good for you!!! You are taking the bull by the horns and making wise decisions. You go girl Keep in touch. Warmly, Honey
Another “home-run” blog piece. Even better when you click back to “I followed my passion ~ an earlier blog piece.
Kol haKavod Honey ~ strength to strength~
~patti
You are special! Shabbat Shalom. Warmly, Honey
What a great read. Every woman should be empowered to make self care their immediate goal and strive to be open to be the best version of herself.
I am smiling. You are so right on! Warmly, Honey
Hello there honey Yes I am a empowered woman thanks to you the encouragement to stay visible and vibrant I’ve climbed those stairs they were very high too but I made it I keep a journal as you suggested it it really does work now I’m trying Instagram I love it it’s such fun I could write a book on you your inspiration is so contagious keep up the fine work love love 😊❤️🙏
You made my Saturday happier than it already is. Warmly, Honey