Ambition Isn’t a Dirty Word
For as long as I can remember, ambition has had a complicated relationship with womanhood. Somewhere along the way, society decided that women who dream big, speak boldly, and chase success with fire in their belly are too much. Too loud. Too aggressive. Too focused. Too… unapologetic.
But let me tell you something I’ve learned through experience: ambition is not something to hide. It’s not a flaw to fix. It’s not a phase you grow out of. Ambition is power. And as women, especially women of color, we should never apologize for wanting more—for ourselves, our families, and our communities.
Owning Your Voice
In professional settings, it’s easy for anyone to fall into the habit of softening their language or downplaying their contributions, especially when trying to be polite or avoid misunderstanding. Phrases like “Sorry to bother you…” or “I just wanted to…” often show up, even when the message is important and worth hearing.
But confidence and clarity aren’t things we need to apologize for. Everyone benefits when communication is direct, respectful, and authentic.
Owning your voice isn’t about being loud, it’s about being true to yourself, standing behind your work, and encouraging others to do the same. That’s how strong relationships and lasting impact are built.
Ambition Is Not Arrogance
Let’s clear this up right now: ambition does not mean arrogance. Being confident in your abilities doesn’t mean you think you’re better than anyone else. It means you believe in yourself. That’s it.
Men are raised to chase success without apology. They’re praised for being go-getters and trailblazers. Women, on the other hand, are often told to stay humble, wait their turn, and be grateful for what they have. But why is wanting more seen as greedy or ungrateful when it comes from a woman?
If I want to lead a company, launch a nonprofit, or become a voice in my community, that doesn’t mean I’m stepping on others to get there. It means I’m stepping into my purpose.
Ambition Looks Different for Everyone
Ambition isn’t one-size-fits-all. For some women, ambition looks like building a business from scratch. For others, it’s being the first in their family to go to college, or choosing to stay home and raise children with intention and pride.
Whatever your version of ambition looks like, it matters. And you don’t owe anyone an explanation for why your dreams look the way they do.
The truth is, we need more women to pursue what lights them up. We need women who are unapologetically bold, because when we show up with all of our power, we give others permission to do the same.
The World Benefits from Ambitious Women
Let’s stop acting like the world is harmed by women who aim high. In fact, the world gets better every time a woman chooses to rise.
Think about it: ambitious women innovate, create jobs, build communities, and lift others as they climb. They shatter ceilings and challenge outdated norms. They raise daughters who believe they can do anything—and sons who respect women who lead.
Ambition in women is not a threat. It’s a gift. One that keeps on giving.
Let’s Talk About Perception
Confidence and assertiveness can be interpreted in different ways, and sometimes those interpretations are shaped by unconscious biases. The same qualities, being firm, negotiating strongly, advocating for yourself can be praised in one context and misunderstood in another.
That’s why it’s so important to lead with clarity, authenticity, and purpose. When we stay true to our values and communicate with confidence, we build trust, respect, and meaningful relationships, regardless of how others might label it.
For me, it’s never been about being liked by everyone, it’s about showing up with intention, delivering value, and building a business and reputation I’m proud of.
My Message to Young Women
To every young woman reading this: your ambition is a superpower. Don’t ever feel like you have to hide it or explain it away. The world will try to tell you to slow down, to tone it down, or to wait your turn.
But here’s the truth: your voice matters now. Your vision matters now. The seat at the table? You don’t need permission to take it. You belong there.
And when you get there, don’t just take a seat—build a longer table. Bring other women with you. Champion those who are still finding their voice. That’s how we change the game.
No More Shrinking—It’s Time to Rise
I’m no longer sorry for being ambitious. And neither should you be. We are not here to play small or stay silent. We are here to lead, to innovate, and to shine.
Ambition is not something women need to apologize for. It’s something we need to celebrate, nurture, and pass down to the next generation. Because when one woman rises, we all rise.
Let’s keep rising—unapologetically.
