For many female business leaders and entrepreneurs, the term ‘entrepreneur’ can often evoke feelings of inadequacy and inferiority. After all, in a male-dominated field such as this, it is almost inevitable that male standards will be held up as the ideal for success in entrepreneurial ventures. But is the masculine narrative that dominates the field of entrepreneurship actually holding women back? Recent research demonstrates that women entrepreneurs are less likely to identify as an entrepreneur because of masculine associations with the concept–but evidence also suggests that these same associations can give rise to unique growth opportunities for more successful female-led businesses.

Let’s explore why modern female business owners, entrepreneurs, and founders must embrace their identity as powerful innovators and use their own skills, philosophies, and experiences to gain a leading edge in the expanding world of entrepreneurship.

As female entrepreneurs, we have the power to shift the status quo and level the playing field. Our values, which emphasize career satisfaction, relationships with employees and customers, and contributions to society, should be seen as a strength and are much needed to maintain staff retention. By standing up for ourselves and demanding the same respect and resources as our male counterparts, we can demonstrate that female-owned businesses are capable of being just as successful as male-owned enterprises.

With the right mindset and access to resources, you can achieve success beyond what you ever thought possible. By recognizing how capital providers view female entrepreneurs, you can confidently demonstrate your commitment to your venture and prove that you are just as capable of running a successful business that is worth investing in. Developing a strong value perspective will also ensure that your work brings meaningful contributions to society while still allowing you to lead a balanced lifestyle.

So let’s rise up and take our rightful place in the business world.

Women make up an incredible source of untapped potential and we must take responsibility for leading the charge in creating economic and job growth, and this starts with us building our businesses to be attractive for investments. To do this effectively, we must challenge the imposter syndrome that holds us back and focus on gaining a sense of efficacy that will help us become successful entrepreneurs. Every woman has unique strengths that she can bring to her business, but financial acumen and the ability to pitch and present for investment opportunities are also critical for success in today’s world. Let’s embrace our power and lead the way in achieving our goals and creating real impact.

Don’t be afraid to step into your own identity and take pride in how far you have come. You don’t have to strive for perfection – just keep pushing forward and continue to break barriers. Don’t let others define who you are, but instead, take control of your own story and create something bigger than yourself. Embrace your own success identity and become a trail-blazing businesswoman.

By summoning the courage to create a more inclusive version of entrepreneurship, you will empower yourself and countless other women to tap into their full potential as entrepreneurs and make an invaluable impact in the world.

Reflect on what you associate with the word and experience of entrepreneurship.

How do you feel about being called a successful female founder or entrepreneur?

And where may you be blocking yourself from becoming a trail-blazing businesswoman by not fully embracing your success identity?