Learning how to be an independent young woman can help you achieve personal and professional goals, attain financial independence and provide you with a strong sense of self-esteem. Independent young women who make informed, educated decisions and have a firm sense of self-worth are more likely to have healthy relationships and higher lifetime aspirations.
Step 1
Find your passion. Decide what you are most passionate about in life and look for career opportunities that allow you to incorporate those feelings. A career counselor or guidance counselor at a postsecondary educational institution can help you gauge your aptitude and explore different career paths.
Step 2
Get an education. Pursue higher education in the form of college, university or vocational training. Degrees and certifications can lead to expanded employment opportunities.
Step 3
Become financially independent. Young women who are able to support themselves financially have greater decision-making capabilities and don’t have to rely on others for basic living necessities. Learn how to manage your money, create a budget and live within your means.
Step 4
Develop goals. Goals can be short term and long term. Think about what you want to achieve personally and professionally and chart a course of action for achieving your goals in a specified time.
Step 5
Select a mentor. Identify another female you admire in your professional life and ask to develop a mentoring relationship. This person should be someone interested in identifying opportunities for growth and development and nurturing your career.
Step 6
Stay healthy. Take good care of your body and mind by regularly exercising, avoiding reckless lifestyle choices and getting regular checkups. Establishing relationships with physicians you trust will set you on the path to long-term health and wellness.
Step 7
Choose good friends. Surround yourself with people who share similar goals, beliefs and philosophies. These people can become lifelong friends who will support and encourage you to be your best.
Step 8
Travel. When you are financially able, visit other countries and other cultures to learn about the world around you. This opens your mind and expands your horizons.
Step 9
Stay informed. Read your local newspaper and follow national and international news. This keeps you up-to-speed about what’s going on in the world.
Step 10
Register to vote. Learn about local and national political races and make informed decisions about leadership.
Step 11
Avoid toxic relationships. Remove yourself from abusive or manipulative relationships that have a negative impact on your self-esteem.
Step 12
Get involved. Join community organizations, intramural sports teams or religious groups and get involved in your community. Find volunteer opportunities that allow you to give back to society in a positive way.
Step 13
Maintain a positive attitude. Disappointments in life can lead to frustration and discouragement. While disappointment is a natural part of life, strive to find the positive aspects in every circumstance.
References
Writer Bio
Lisa McQuerrey has been a business writer since 1987. In 1994, she launched a full-service marketing and communications firm. McQuerrey's work has garnered awards from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the International Association of Business Communicators and the Associated Press. She is also the author of several nonfiction trade publications, and, in 2012, had her first young-adult novel published by Glass Page Books.