As we celebrate Women’s Month, it is worth considering how women all over the world are reimagining what success means. Traditionally, success was mostly measured in terms of wealth, power, and status; standards which were largely defined within male-dominated areas. However, there has been a quiet revolution led by women who defy these norms and forge their definitions of success which emphasize wellness, community, and meaning.
The transition from hustle culture to well-being
Success has for a long time been written with an instance of hustle culture. This culture often left little room for personal fulfilment or well-being as it glorified constant work and relentless pursuit of goals. Many women dedicated themselves to trying to meet these expectations only to suffer burnout and dissatisfaction.
Nevertheless, more women today are rejecting this narrative. Instead of amounting to or accumulating the most they can, they now care about living well. This transformation embraces work-life balance, and mental health as well as pursuing our passions that give us joy and purpose in life.
For instance, the rise of women entrepreneurs creating businesses with more than simply financial gain in mind. Women build companies that match their principles like sustainability promotion or support to local communities and foster an inclusive working environment. Their achievement is aimed not only in terms of money received but also in terms of the good they do at making a positive impact rather than only financial gain.
Redefining leadership and power
Leadership is another area where women are redefining success. Conventional leadership styles have often emphasized hierarchical power structures and top-down decision-making. However, women leaders are increasingly embracing a more collaborative, empathetic, and inclusive approach.
This approach values emotional intelligence, active listening, and empowerment of others. This highlights that successful female leaders do not acquire power over other people; however, they inspire by leading others to them. The behaviour change is leading to workplaces where innovation thrives while creativity finds space for growth.
Consider the example of Dr. Dlamini-Zuma, during the COVID-19 pandemic, she played a critical role as the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs. She was responsible for
coordinating the national response to the pandemic, including the enforcement of lockdown regulations. Despite the challenging circumstances, Dr. Dlamini-Zuma approached the situation with empathy and a deep sense of responsibility toward the most vulnerable populations in South Africa.
The role of community and collaboration
Women redefining success on their terms is also the emphasis on community and collaboration over individual achievement. Women are increasingly valuing relationships and collective success, understanding that true fulfilment comes not just from personal accomplishments, but from contributing to something larger than oneself.
This transition is evident in the rise of women’s networks as well as support groups and collaborative ventures. Through these platforms, women can share knowledge, resources, and encouragement leading to solidarity for growth. In an environment such as this, success does not mean someone else has failed too; it signifies something that can be collectively appreciated and shared with everyone.
For example, initiatives like SheTrades ZA were established by the South African Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition (DTIC) in conjunction with the Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDA) under the umbrella of the International Trade Centre’s SheTrades initiative in 2020. This was to facilitate linking South African women entrepreneurs with global markets. The program offered instruction, guidance, and assistance to females in business looking to expand their businesses as well as gain the opportunity for international trade. They put more effort into building women entrepreneurs’ capacity, enhancing their skills and access to finance as well as markets through SheTrades ZA. These networks are not just about professional advancement; they’re about creating spaces where women can thrive together, redefining success in ways that are meaningful to them.
Embracing Authenticity
With more and more women altering conventional perspectives of achievement, tomorrow seems far richer and more open-minded than ever before. Indeed, success is no longer uniform; now it signifies being genuine to oneself. Whether one chooses her family first starts a business she loves dearly or leads through care, women are showing there exist unlimited ways to succeed.
This is Women’s Month, let’s shout out to the silent rebellion of women who are changing the definition of success for themselves. They remind us that success does not mean imitating outdated standards but such things as fulfilment and purpose according to one’s inner self. Not only do we empower ourselves, but also encourage future generations of women to follow their dreams with authenticity and unreserved courage by accepting this new meaning of success.
By Ntombifuthi Khumalo (SAAYC Board Member)
