She Strengthens

Rethinking the Myth of the “Strong, Independent Person”

When my last relationship ended, I was left reeling with questions about my identity and purpose. Who was I without my partner? How would I define myself outside of our relationship? The resounding advice from friends and family was to focus on myself and my career, implying that being single was the key to success. But as I navigated this new chapter, I couldn’t shake the feeling that having a fulfilling relationship and a thriving career weren’t mutually exclusive.

The Pressure to Choose

Society often presents us with a false dichotomy: we can either be in a happy, committed relationship or be a driven, successful career person. This notion is perpetuated by the idea that a partner will hold us back from achieving our goals. But what if the opposite is true? What if a supportive partner can actually propel us towards success?

Debunking the Myth

A recent Forbes article by Caroline Beaton shed light on the surprising benefits of being in a relationship. Statistically, people in relationships tend to earn more, get promoted faster, and rise to the top of their industries. In fact, nearly 70% of high-growth business founders and 93% of Fortune 1000 female CEOs are married. This research suggests a positive correlation between romantic love and professional success.

My Personal Experience

I can attest to the benefits of being in a happy, committed relationship. When I’m supported and cared for by my partner, I feel more motivated, confident, and driven to succeed. I take more risks, seek out new opportunities, and perform better in all areas of my life. The happiness and security I feel in my personal life spill over into my professional and academic pursuits.

Redefining Strength and Independence

The notion that being single is the only way to be strong and independent is limiting and inaccurate. We can be strong, career-driven, and in a happy relationship. We can also choose not to prioritize our careers and focus on other aspects of our lives. The key to being a strong person is to be honest, well-rounded, and true to ourselves.

Embracing Our Choices

Whether we’re single, in a relationship, or somewhere in between, we should celebrate our choices and recognize that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to success. By embracing our individuality and rejecting societal pressure to conform, we can forge our own paths and achieve greatness on our own terms.