The term “self-made” gets thrown around a lot lately, particularly with regards to individuals who have made significant strides in the business world. These powerful women are celebrated for their seemingly innate ability to succeed against all odds and stand out on their own.
But are we to believe that these women did it all on their own? Without a shred of help, mentorship, support, or guidance from a single soul?
First, it’s important to acknowledge that creativity, hard work, and perseverance are certainly essential qualities to have in achieving success. But these alone are not enough. Everyone needs a support system and resources to tap into, and being able to recognize and leverage these is critical. Building intentional relationships is essential, and this often involves seeking out mentors and peers who share your professional goals.
Second, teamwork plays a vital role in the success of any enterprise, whether it’s a small business or a global corporation. Collaboration and communication are essential, and only through the input of others can we truly foster growth and achieve our goals. The most successful women in business have strong networks, dependable teams, and a supportive family (whether given or chosen) that encourages them.
Finally, the power of community goes beyond just professional advancement. It offers emotional support and boosts our mental health, which in turn, helps us thrive professionally. The encouragement we receive from friends and family can make a big difference in our motivation when we face challenges. We must build communities that support and lift each other up so that individuals can achieve their full potential.
So, in my humble opinion, the phrase ‘self-made’ is a myth. The truth is, we all need support and guidance to achieve our goals. A powerful tribe, network, inner circle, or personal board of directors…whatever you want to call it…is essential in helping women succeed.
OK, so assuming you buy into this premise…how does one go about cultivating a close, supportive community of women?
Attend Networking Events: Participate in events, both online and in-person, tailored towards professional women. This can include seminars, workshops, conferences, or social gatherings. These settings provide excellent opportunities to meet and connect with like-minded individuals.
Join Professional Women’s Groups: There are a plethora of professional groups and associations that focus on supporting women in the business world. Joining these groups can provide access to a wealth of resources and connections.
Mentorship: Seek out a mentor who is established in your field of interest. A mentor can provide invaluable guidance and insights, and often they have an extensive network of professionals they can introduce you to.
Social Media: Leverage social networking platforms like LinkedIn or industry-specific forums to connect with other professional women. Engage in discussions, share your perspectives, and reach out to individuals whose work you admire.
Support Others: And perhaps most importantly, remember that relationship building is a two-way street. Be supportive of other women in your network and seek ways to help them. This could mean sharing opportunities, providing recommendations, or simply offering words of encouragement. Building solid relationships often entails giving as much as you receive.
The journey towards professional success is not a solitary one, but rather a continuous and evolving process of building relationships, seeking guidance, and extending support to others. It’s a dynamic interplay of learning, growing, and contributing to a community that shares common goals. Remember that each connection made, each piece of advice gained, is a stepping stone towards your personal and professional development. The road may be winding, but by fostering a supportive network and leveraging shared wisdom, the route becomes less daunting.
There’s no such thing as a ‘self-made’ woman. Instead, there are resilient women, lifted up by those who came before them. You’re not self-made. You’re community built.
