Confidence, money, and women: empowering financial independence

As International Women’s Day 2025 approaches, it’s time to reflect on how far we’ve come in the pursuit of gender equality and the empowerment of women. As a financial coach my belief is that having confidence and money provides an opportunity to dive into one of the most powerful aspects of empowerment—financial independence.

The power of confidence in financial decision-making

One of the biggest hurdles women face when it comes to money is a lack of confidence. Studies show that women often underestimate their financial knowledge and avoid investing or managing their wealth in ways that are accessible to them. They may feel less equipped to make decisions regarding retirement plans, investments, and even negotiating salaries, which can lead to lower overall wealth accumulation over time.

But confidence isn’t a fixed trait—it’s something that can be built. Financial coaching is one of the most effective tools women can leverage to start building that confidence. With the right guidance and knowledge, women can feel empowered to take control of their financial futures, whether they are just starting out in their career or are in the midst of significant life transitions, like starting a family, changing careers, or approaching retirement.

Financial coaching: the key to unlocking women’s potential

Financial coaching isn’t just about learning how to budget or how to save. It’s about changing the way we think about money and our role in managing it. For many women, societal expectations, gender stereotypes, and economic disparities have contributed to them not pursuing their financial aspirations with the same confidence as men. Women are frequently taught to prioritize the needs of others, particularly in family, relationships, and caregiving roles. This mindset can greatly hinder their capacity to plan for their own financial future.

By engaging in financial coaching, women can begin to break free from these limiting beliefs and develop a positive relationship with money. Coaching empowers women to build an understanding of their own financial values, goals, and strategies, which leads to the confidence to make informed decisions about their financial wellbeing

Confidence to take action: start where you are

If you’re a woman reading this, and wondering where to begin, please know that it’s never too late to start. Whether you’re just starting your career, entering into a relationship, becoming a parent, or thinking about retirement, the time to build your financial confidence is now. Here are some steps to help you on your journey:

1. Educate yourself: Knowledge is power. Read books, take online courses, and seek out resources that help you understand money management, investing, and building wealth.
2. Seek financial coaching: Working with a financial coach can help you gain clarity and confidence in your financial decisions. A coach can guide you through budgeting, saving and even making large financial decisions with ease.
3. Set financial goals: Identify your short and long-term goals. What do you want your money to do for you? Whether it’s buying a home, funding your children’s education, travel or retiring early, knowing your goals can help you stay focused and motivated.
4. Practice self-worth: Take time to reflect on your value—not only in terms of your earning potential but also your ability to make smart financial decisions. Every woman deserves to live without financial fear and anxiety.

Let’s continue to build a world where every woman feels confident in her ability to manage her money and make choices that will secure her future. Whether through education, mentorship, or coaching, every woman deserves the tools and confidence to take charge of her financial destiny.

Here’s to a future where women thrive financially, and where confidence is as natural as breathing!

Happy International Women’s Day!

Dee O’Callaghan is a qualified Financial Coach and Team Lead at the Financial Wellbeing Collective. With over 25 years of experience in the financial services sector, including managerial roles, she has spent the last 6 years dedicated to the not-for-profit sector, helping individuals improve their financial wellbeing.