Being Jane

Women Working Together with Self-Assurance and Passion

Feminism: The word seems well-enough defined in our society. It means the belief in the need to secure, or a commitment to securing, rights and opportunities for women equal to those of men.

Yet I believe it’s time for a fresh definition of the word, because there is so much more to do, and women must help women achieve equality and balance in society. I see a redefining of the idea of feminism today to symbolize women working together, to be who they want to be and do what they want to do, with self-assurance and passion.

We owe the great strides women have made in society to the pioneering women — and thoughtful men — who have come before us, paving the way. Because of them, there is nothing incorrect with feminism today. Yet, we know “feminism” is a historically and emotionally laden word, and it is an outdated concept for some who hear it.

Too many people hear the word “feminism” and believe it still represents women who harbor resentment against men. Others take a more tongue-in-cheek approach and immediately think of the bra-burning parties of the 1960s. Some women of younger generations have no recollection of feminism whatsoever and don’t identify with it at all.

I have been inspired by women around the world whom I have met and talked with who live their lives with self-assurance and passion. To me, they are redefining feminism to be a word and a movement ripe with optimism and relevancy. Feminism isn’t about angry protests and fiery marches — although I acknowledge that those still are needed at times. The real inner workings of feminism today are about creating a network of women helping women to realize the opportunity for all women to be whomever and whatever they want to be: from CEO to homemaker, from motorcyclist to philanthropist, from fighter pilot to missionary.

The power of women is multiplied when we are united into a single voice. Through it, women’s lives are improved by a renewed sense of direction and control. Sharing the ideas and successes of like-minded women will improve all women’s lives, thereby showing that feminism is not an antiquated concept, just a redefined one.

Click here to read our Guide to Living with Self-Assurance and Passion

Redefining Feminism