Our Money, Our Stories: Empowering Conversations for Women
Common challenges emerge when we talk about women’s financial well-being. These include navigating the gender pay gap, balancing career ambitions with family care, and sometimes lacking the confidence to manage our finances independently – from taxes to investing. What if these issues, deeply rooted in our women money stories, are less about our individual capabilities and more about ‘invisible societal scripts’ we have internalised?
I have personally witnessed these ‘scripts’ play out. There were moments where I noticed differences in financial perspectives and behaviour between myself and male friends regarding investments, savings and insurance. Significantly, I often hear high school girls dismiss learning about tax, thinking “It’s too difficult. My husband will do it”. A stark contrast to the adult women in our workshops who bravely manage their own finances after life changes like divorce or widowhood.
The Unseen Influences from Our Money Stories
These unexamined narratives about money can subtly shape how we advocate for ourselves – at work, at home, and especially around caregiving. They influence our financial boundaries with loved ones, and the actions we take (or don’t take) to manage our money with confidence through all of life’s turns. Understanding these dynamics is key to unlocking true financial confidence. For those of us in this community passionate about empowering women and girls, exploring these narratives can spark insights for our own well-being and for the young women we champion.
Consider where ingrained beliefs might hold you back. Is it an old idea that women aren’t ‘naturally’ good with money, or that financial risk is best left for others? Such narratives can impact our personal money stories, sometimes leading to inaction rather than building financial understanding. Hesitation around steps like investing or asking for shared bills to be paid more equitably, often stems from these roots.
Embracing Learning & Emotions
Yet, taking ownership starts small – perhaps by exploring a new resource or initiating a conversation. It’s not about knowing everything first but embracing learning (mistakes and all!) with curiosity. This builds informed confidence.
Not forgetting, the heart-side of money – our financial choices carry emotional weight. Recognising how these decisions make us feel and what we want to feel, often guides us to more fulfilling outcomes. I recall navigating the struggle of resigning from full time work due to burnout. There was much stress, anxiety and external pressure from well-intentioned people questioning my path. However, that journey ultimately helped me separate my self-worth from my work identity. This peace, knowing my worth isn’t measured by my earnings, is invaluable.
Changing Our Money Stories to Shape Our Future
The stories we tell ourselves about money are powerful. The exciting part? Once we see them, we gain control and can choose to change them. This, in turn, creates a ripple effect for the young women in our lives. Real financial confidence often sparks from asking curious questions and taking those brave first steps. Every move boosts our own well-being and strengthens our collective journey towards equality and stronger financial futures.
As you read this, perhaps a new perspective has surfaced. Or maybe an area of hesitation has now become an opportunity for growth, prompting new empowering steps you can explore. At Empower2Free, we empower confident and informed money decision-making in the next generation of women. If you are inspired to continue this exploration, share your insights, or learn more, connect with us. Alternatively, you can take the steps here.
This article was originally contributed to 100 Women. 100 Women is an impactful organization dedicated to empowering women and girls through collective giving and strategic grants. Their mission strongly aligns with our belief in fostering a ripple effect of positive change in the community.
