Feeling capable of managing your life can be a very strong feeling. As a woman, you may feel like you have to try harder than a man to be truly independent. True independence means being able to look after yourself physically and emotionally. There are several actions you can take to become an independent woman and remember, being independent doesn't mean you can't lean on others when needed. It means having the freedom to choose to do so.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Becoming Independent on the Emotional Plan
Step 1. Get to know yourself
Being independent means taking charge of your own life and making your own decisions. To achieve this, you need to understand who you really are: knowing and loving yourself is the first step towards independence.
- Pay attention to your mood. Emotions play an important role in decision making, so keep them in check. Be aware of what makes you happy and what makes you dissatisfied.
- Understand what influence your surroundings can have on you. Notice what your reactions are in certain places and situations.
Step 2. Make your choices
Making important decisions on your own is an essential step in gaining independence. To make an important choice with conviction, consider carefully. Remember that the best strategy is to balance what your heart wants and what your mind thinks is best for you.
- Make a list of the risks and benefits. As you go through the list, decide whether the odds are in your favor or against you.
- Don't be afraid to ask someone for advice. You will always be the one to make the decision, even if you listen to the suggestions of a trusted person.
- Think about how you would feel if the decision you made was broadcast on the evening news - is that a decision you'd be proud of?
- Does the decision you make compromise your values, character or integrity? In case you need to make an unpopular decision, do what you think is appropriate and consistent with these aspects.
Step 3. Learn to comfort yourself
Being an independent woman means being able to take care of yourself emotionally. Be aware of your emotions and be kind to yourself in times of stress or unhappiness - you deserve some patience.
- Each of us is different on this point, so try to find something simple that you can do to calm down if needed. If you're at work, unplug and take a minute for yourself. Go to the toilet and wet your face with cold water, or leave your mailbox and text a friend.
- Pets are a valuable aid to self-comfort. If you have a cat, pet him: it will help you fight stress.
Step 4. Be comfortable with yourself
Learning to enjoy your company is an important part of being independent. It is not necessary to always depend on others to enjoy an activity. To make it a habit, practice spending time with yourself on purpose.
- Go to the movies alone. You don't have to worry about someone talking during the screening or stealing your popcorn.
- Dinner alone. The idea of going to a restaurant alone might intimidate you, but you may also find it quite enjoyable. By the way, you can choose the time and place without worrying about another person's appetite. If you're afraid of getting bored, bring a book or magazine.
Step 5. Have positive relationships
Being in a codependent relationship can greatly reduce your capacity for autonomy. Examine all of your relationships - personal, couple, and professional - and make sure each has the right balance between giving and receiving and that it meets your needs.
Try to be more determined in a relationship. If you feel that you are not valued enough, let us know
Part 2 of 3: Taking charge of your own finances
Step 1. Track your expenses
Economic independence is an important element in becoming an independent woman. The first step in managing your finances positively is to understand how much you spend each month. Track your expenses for at least two months to get a clear idea of what you're spending.
- Keep track of both small and large expenses. Record how much you spend on rent, credit card payments, food and transportation, as well as leisure and entertainment.
- Try using an app or online banking to keep track of your finances easily and accurately.
Step 2. Find a reason
Try to understand why becoming independent is so important to you. Do you want to buy your own house? Do you want to save some savings for when you retire? Write down your economic priorities: viewing them will help you find the enthusiasm you need to start a stable economic plan.
Step 3. Establish a spending cap
Establish fixed quotas to spend in every area of your life. For example, if you know you like to go to the movies once a week, include this in your budget as well. Establish a sufficient amount both to cover your expenses and to allow yourself to save weekly or monthly.
Allow some slack within your budget - this way you won't be unprepared in case you increase the price of gas or your cat needs a visit to the vet
Step 4. Learn about possible investments
To be completely financially independent, you need to do a little research and planning. Find out about the possibility of making investments or making your savings pay off. If you think this is helpful, consult a financial advisor.
Step 5. Increase your earnings
Generally, women earn less than men for the same profession. Reflect on your professional worth and decide whether or not this is the right time to ask for a raise. You most likely deserve it.
- Make a plan. Set up a meeting with your boss to discuss your career goals and salary. Be very clear about your requests.
- Be open to negotiations.
- Stay calm and confident during the meeting.
Part 3 of 3: Gaining Self-Confidence
Step 1. Be yourself
A key component of being an independent woman is being confident. This also means being honest with you. Don't try to be a copy of other women; find out your strengths and interests and focus on those.
- Don't fall victim to tacky fashion trends. Being beautiful will make you feel good; adopt a style that suits you and that makes you feel comfortable and confident.
- Don't give in to pressure to conform to same-sex clichés. Many women feel compelled to look and act in certain ways as women: if you don't feel like being "feminine," you don't have to. You don't have to wear makeup or dress in a certain way, as you don't necessarily have to enjoy activities that are typically considered feminine, like shopping or watching melodramatic movies.
Step 2. Face your fears
There may be a certain fear that is holding you back from being independent. For example, you may be nervous about living alone or you may have a general anxiety problem. Remember that you are not alone and that there are some remedies to overcome your fears.
- Try exposure therapy. Exposing yourself to your fears in small doses is considered an effective technique. For example, if you suffer from anxiety about dating, ask a friend to accompany you to a new event and gradually find the courage to go alone.
- Seek professional help. If your anxiety is preventing you from gaining independence or achieving any other goals, see a mental health professional - therapy can help reduce anxiety.
Step 3. Accept help
Being independent means being responsible for your own choices, but that doesn't mean not being able to rely on others. Women are able to forge strong bonds with friends and family; don't be afraid to ask and accept help if you need it.
Be clear about asking for help. Be honest about what you need and allow the other person to be supportive
Step 4. Think positively
A positive attitude will allow you to show yourself to others as a confident woman. It will also help you feel good about yourself and give you the strength you need to become independent. Avoid negative thoughts and instead take the time to compliment yourself every day.
Step 5. Take responsibility for your life
You are the only person who can truly change your life. You acknowledge that you are responsible for your choices; once you understand this, you will feel more confident and this will lead you to greater independence.
Advice
- Expand your circle of knowledge; different people will stimulate different parts of you.
- Ask for help when you need it (from a friend, family, or therapist).
- Experiment with new things: for example, learn a sport or dedicate yourself to cooking.
