Who is a successful woman?

Status of women has been vastly improving, the pace differs from place to place and country to country of course. And India, despite being surrounded by conservative countries is showing progress in a remarkable way. Women of today have more freedom and opportunities compared to a generation ago. Thanks to all the strong and subtle waves created by feminism around the world.

But all said and done if we look closely, I think there is still whole lot of pressure being dumped on and it's felt more after getting married and after having kids. There is this one side where people with so called modern thinking blurt without thinking, “ Hi, how are you? How is life in U.S? So are you working or just staying home?” While there is another set of people with old school of thought and rigid expectations. It was initially hard for me to decide as what to do in life in this polarized situation. I dared to pursue my interests without thinking about anything. I discovered my love for writing, social work and fitness activities.

Every person should have dreams and goals in life and they must pursue them wholeheartedly. From leaders in fortune 500 companies to people whom I know very well have been my role model in many ways. Moms who are professionals, social workers and others who impact lives have been my inspiration.Their success stories are filled with hard work, perseverance and effort put by their support system. It is true that it takes a village to raise a child and in today’s era village includes your spouse, parents and friends. And in my case, there are footprints of many in every accomplishment of mine. It is true that motherhood is the greatest and toughest job in the world. And I am fortunate to be surrounded with positive minded people who respect child upbringing as they would respect any other profession. Respecting women regardless of her choices is true feminism. Clearing off boundaries and expectations will benefit her and society at large.

My sole purpose of this write up is to clear up confusion and stir thoughts with no inhibitions for the woman of today. Get inspired by all the accomplishments and make sure you keep your goals in track. But never get bogged down by the difference in success stories. Some moms will bounce back to employment after childbirth in 1 week, some in 6 weeks and some in few years. Some do great in volunteering and some will shine in entrepreneurship. It doesn't matter what you do or what field you are in, all you have to do is give your best shot to be a successful woman!