An Opinion by Syeda Javeria Tahir.
She didn’t plan to be independent. Circumstances made her that way. Behind every working woman is a story of necessity, not luxury. She steps out not because she wants to challenge traditions, but because life gives her no other choice. For some, independence isn’t a dream, it’s survival.
When Family Becomes the First Challenge
Before the outside world starts questioning her, the first resistance often comes from her own home. When a woman decides to work, people rarely ask why. They simply start assuming she’s “becoming modern” or “changing her priorities.”
Maybe her father is unwell and she has to take responsibility. Maybe her husband lost his job. Maybe she’s the only earning member trying to educate her siblings.
Whatever the reason, she’s not stepping out for adventure. She’s stepping out for responsibility. Yet, instead of being supported, she’s often doubted.
Relatives whisper, neighbour’s comment, and sometimes, her own family keeps reminding her to “stay careful,” as if working with dignity is a risk to her character.
That’s where the cycle begins. A woman is sent out to solve problems, but judged for how she does it.
The Reality of the Workplace
Once she enters the professional world, she discovers a different kind of struggle. Workplaces are not always as equal as they seem. A woman’s achievements are often measured against her gender, not her capability. She faces bias during promotions, unnecessary comments on her appearance, and unsolicited advice on her personal life. Some deal with harassment, subtle or direct from seniors who misuse authority. Others face constant competition or jealousy from colleagues who cannot accept a woman doing better.
Every word she speaks, every move she makes is observed and judged. If she’s quiet, she’s “arrogant.” If she’s expressive, she’s “too friendly.” The same confidence that’s admired in men is seen as attitude in women. Yet, she keeps showing up. Because she’s not just earning for herself; she’s carrying the weight of her family’s hopes and survival.
A Society Full of Contradictions
We talk about women’s empowerment in seminars, campaigns, and social media posts, but the reality on the ground tells a different story. The same society that tells women to “support their family” also mocks them for stepping out. The same people who take pride in her income question her character for working late.
She’s told to be strong but not outspoken, confident but not bold, ambitious but not demanding. No matter how she behaves, there’s always someone ready to find fault.
This double standard pushes women into a corner. Forced to prove their worth again and again while pretending everything is normal.
The Hidden Cost of Independence
Independence looks empowering from the outside, but inside it’s full of pressure. There’s the burden of financial responsibility, emotional exhaustion, and the constant fear of being misjudged. She doesn’t have the luxury of mistakes. One wrong step and people say, “This is why women shouldn’t work.”
Even success becomes complicated. Instead of appreciation, she faces jealousy, false assumptions, and comparisons. People say she’s “changed” or “too proud,” forgetting that success for her didn’t come easy. It came with sleepless nights, silent tears, and an unending need to prove herself.
True Empowerment, Beyond Applause and Words
True empowerment isn’t about posting slogans or celebrating one day for women. It’s about creating spaces where women can work without fear, speak without judgment, and grow without being questioned. It’s about recognizing that independence is not rebellion, it’s resilience.
An independent woman doesn’t seek validation. She seeks respect. She doesn’t want to be glorified or pitied. She just wants to be treated fairly, to be safe, and to have her efforts acknowledged.
She is not a symbol of defiance; she’s a reflection of everything society failed to provide and she still stood up anyway.
A Final Word
If we truly want an empowered society, we need to stop romanticizing women’s struggles and start removing the reasons behind them.
Support should come before judgment, and respect should replace curiosity.
A woman shouldn’t have to prove her character to earn her bread, nor should she be celebrated only when she sacrifices herself.
Empowerment begins when we let women exist freely. Not as examples, not as exceptions, but as individuals who have every right to live, work, and lead with dignity.
About the Author
Syeda Javeria Tahir is a biochemist by education and a social activist by heart, working with Thalassemia patients. She gives voice to those creating change and believes in the power of words to inspire action.
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