The two words "gold digger" have the potential to propagate the idea that ambitious, career-focused women are largely motivated by materialistic aspirations and appear as gold diggers in society. While the term is mostly used to attack women who are supposedly in relationships with rich men for monetary gain, people have begun using the term to attack career-oriented women as well. But are there really gold digger women, or is this a cleverly created myth? Anushka Rathod, a young financial influencer, spoke with SheThePeople about aspects of this problematic culture and shared her thoughts on it.
Women, like men, can be ambitious and career-oriented for a multitude of reasons. They may seek financial independence, professional success, or the opportunity to make a difference in their chosen field.
Without recognising and respecting the diverse motivations and goals that individuals have, labelling ambitious women as "gold diggers" based on the assumption that they are solely motivated by material gain is a harmful generalisation. It dismisses their accomplishments, undermines their autonomy, and reinforces gender biases. It is crucial to challenge such stereotypes and promote equality and fairness in our perceptions and discussions about women's ambitions and careers.
In conversation with SheThePeople, financial influencer Anushka Rathod spoke about the problematic culture behind the term "gold digger".
Anushka Rathod On Gold Diggers
Indian women tend to be viewed as financially dependent on their husbands. Anushka Rathod talked about how society inherently prevents adult women from pursuing ">financial independence. She made the point that, in general, women desire independence, equality, and the ability to make their own decisions, but that all of these things depend on being able to generate their own income.
However, a woman is referred to as a "gold digger" if she gets excited about her work and her desire to earn money. Rathod responded to all of these comments with a straightforward hit and told all the other women out there to ignore them if being ambitious is seen positively when it comes to men but negatively when it comes to women. She added, "Enjoy your love with your money."
"Yes, I'm in love with money, and if it makes me a gold digger; I don't see anything wrong with it."
Furthermore, the financial expert gave a breakdown for women who feel guilty for being driven and trying to talk about money could become comfortable with money talk. She said, "You have to be confident, there's no other option. It has to come from you because society, unfortunately, will not support you. Also, prioritise yourself; you will have to be selfish if you think the system is unfortunately against you. You need to push yourself to become your own support system in order to achieve more."
She added that there are few groups made of and for independent women like SheThePeople which women can be part of and get help talking about money, and other goals.
Suggested Reading: Financial Influencer Anushka Rathod Shares Steps To Securing Financial Well-Being As A Woman