W.O.M.A.N. – What Does It Mean To Be A Woman In Today’s World? #InternationalWomensDay

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As we slowly approach 8th March, these are just some phrases popping into everyone’s inboxes or social media feeds. Ranging from free sweet treats and discounts to clever awareness campaigns from brands, International Women’s Day activities have become a vibrant celebration of all shades of womanhood and their strengths over the years.

But let’s not forget that behind these celebrations stands decades of history of fighting for women’s rights in society today. Each step towards equality has been paved by the courage and determination of countless women who dared to challenge societal norms and injustices. While women’s rights stand at a much better stage in 2025, we still have a long way to go on the path of gender equality. 

Source: Envato Elements

According to data from the World Economic Forum, at the current rate of progress, it will take until 2158, which is roughly five generations from now, to reach full gender parity. Thus, the International Women’s Day 2025 theme, ‘Accelerate Action’, calls for increased momentum towards addressing the systemic barriers that women face and accelerating action towards achieving true gender equality.

Our efforts to accelerate action for women’s empowerment begin with showing solidarity and exploring not just one but all diverse definitions of being a woman in society. 

Also Read: International Women’s Day: Building Bridges of Inclusion!

What Does Being A Woman Actually Mean?

The simple answer is that there is no one-size-fits-all definition of being a woman. Women’s wealth of experiences encompasses a diverse range of roles and identities, shaped by a variety of factors such as socioeconomic background, cultural upbringing, and individual beliefs. 

While the definition of a woman may be largely influenced by media or societal expectations limiting femininity in a box, women have proved time and time again that they are so much more than that. 

Source: Envato Elements

Breaking away from societal norms, they have redefined what it means to be a woman. From their struggles to their resilience and ultimately, triumph, let’s explore the diverse, vibrant shades of women through an acronym – W.O.M.A.N.

W – Willpower

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That is how Women’s Day started in 1911 after all – an organized defiance against systemic stigma. Throughout history, women have consistently shattered stereotypes and fought against stigma to claim their rightful place in all spheres of life.

Despite progress, stereotypes about women’s capabilities and their role in society stand rampant, holding women back from progress and leadership. Due to systemic barriers, women have no choice but to work twice as hard to prove they deserve a seat at the table. 

Nevertheless, with gradual progress, more women are stepping into leadership roles and setting a benchmark for all young women. The sheer willpower to create change within society has kept women going and will continue to do so over generations.

O – Ownership

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Whether it be their careers or their personal lives, women are increasingly taking charge of their narratives – demonstrating resilience and resourcefulness and taking ownership of their futures. Today, women are in control of their own choices and refuse to have their voices be silenced.

But ownership isn’t just for global leaders – it’s for all women who refuse to settle for less. Here at ImpactGuru, we have been fortunate to witness diverse multitudes of strong women fighting for their own or their loved ones’ lives by taking matters into their own hands.

Lalita’s Tale Of Resilience

Lalita, one of our brave warriors, had undergone two miscarriages and encountered a lot of losses in her life. So when she was due to have a baby again, both happiness and fear surrounded her.

Her worst nightmare came true when her newborn had to be admitted to the NICU. Facing financial challenges, Lalita took charge and started raising funds with ImpactGuru. 

Source: ImpactGuru

Today, her baby is healthier than ever and enjoying her childhood without any qualms. This miracle was only possible with Lalita standing strong and taking ownership of her struggles and overcoming them with ImpactGuru by her side.

Read Lalita’s Full Story Here: How A Mother Defied The Odds For Her Newborn | #ImpactGuruSuccess

M- Multi-tasker

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In today’s times, being a woman often means wearing many hats – balancing professional and social lives while simultaneously managing households. While this multiplicity empowers women as multi-tasking magicians, these expectations can also get exhausting at times.

With more women stepping into professional roles, they are expected to fulfill a multifaceted role in society – balancing kitchen and spreadsheets with a smile on their face, never tiring of it. But what most fail to understand is that many women may not wish to be these ‘superheroes’.

A sign of a woman’s strength is not struggling in silence without asking for help but the ability to lean on her family and community for support. 

A – Ambition

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For far too long, the word ‘ambition’ has had a negative connotation when it comes to a woman achieving her dreams. A woman with career aspirations or big goals was often seen as neglectful or self-centered. Instead, society expected women to be meek and humble of their achievements or only be subservient supporters to their partners' or children’s dreams.

This social stigma faced by women not only holds them back but also discourages upcoming generations of women from being bold and assertive in their aspirations. Hence, creating supportive environments is essential to nurturing this ambition and empowering women to reach greater heights. 

Women also need to unlearn this internalized stigma to reach their fullest potential and pursue their dreams with confidence. Today, it is incredibly empowering to see many women transforming their ambitions into reality in the form of high leadership positions across all sectors.

N – Nurture

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At the heart of every empowered woman is a community that supports, uplifts, and nurtures her potential. As it is rightly said, “Empowered Women Empower Women”, and so only with strong support and understanding can we create a safe space for each woman to define her path.

When women nurture each other’s aspirations, they lift each other without judgement – whether it’s supporting a friend on a high-powered career path or someone who prioritizes family. Most importantly, it means recognizing that there is no right or wrong way to be a woman and that true progress happens only when we not only accept but also celebrate the spectrum of womanhood and its diverse identities.

By sharing experiences openly, we create a ripple effect towards building a culture rooted in compassion and solidarity, where every woman’s voice matters. 

Also Read: How Crowdfunding Empowered These Women To Make a Difference

What Is Your Definition Of W.O.M.A.N.?

This blog only presents one interpretation of the acronym W.O.M.A.N. This International Women’s Day, take a moment and think about your definition of this acronym. What does being a WOMAN mean to you?

No matter what definition we have about women or being a woman, our unique interpretations ultimately form a united spirit of change. Let’s make this spirit the symbol of International Women's Day. With ‘Accelerate Action’, together, we can nurture women’s futures while navigating our present paths of resilience. 

Source: Envato Elements

At ImpactGuru, with a belief in collective action, we are witnesses to how communities supporting people in need can change lives – whether by offering a helping hand, sharing stories that matter, or rallying together for a cause. 

Wishing a Happy International Women’s Day to every woman who dares to dream, hope and empower others. Together, we can make the world stronger.