There’s power in saying what you mean. For some of us, that power starts with an unfiltered statement: I love money. It’s a bold admission, one that doesn’t apologize for ambition or sidestep a commitment to success. But not everyone wants to hear it. In fact, some people see that kind of declaration as a threat—especially when it’s coming from a woman.
After a recent conference, I experienced this firsthand. I had just stepped off stage when a man approached me and told me that saying “I love money” was “sinful.” He actually thought he was doing me a favor, as if reminding me to stay “humble” was a gift of wisdom rather than a veiled attempt to rein in my ambition. His comment was the kind of outdated rhetoric that’s all too common—one that tries to frame ambition as greed, especially for women.
But here’s the truth: There’s nothing wrong with wanting wealth. Wealth creates freedom, amplifies your impact, and allows you to pour resources into what matters most to you, from philanthropic efforts to family legacy. If we, as women consultants, shy away from talking about our financial goals, we’re not only keeping ourselves small; we’re also setting back the next generation of women leaders who deserve to see financial success as their right, not a hidden pursuit.
The Reality of Wealth: More Than Just Money
When we talk about wealth, it’s not just about money in the bank (though that’s certainly part of it). Uncommon wealth is about building a life that’s rich in opportunities, flexibility, and fulfillment. As women consultants, we have the ability to turn our expertise into lasting impact, creating brands that open doors and shatter ceilings for ourselves and others.
An extraordinary brand doesn’t just draw clients; it redefines what’s possible for women in leadership. It gives you the leverage to set higher rates, make a meaningful difference, and work with high-caliber clients who see and respect your value. This is the path to uncommon wealth—a wealth that empowers, elevates, and endures.
Reclaiming the Right to Financial Freedom
For too long, we’ve been told that wanting wealth is selfish or somehow “wrong.” You’ve likely heard it before: “Money doesn’t buy happiness,” “Money is the root of all evil,” and “You shouldn’t love money.” But these phrases are barriers, often used to keep us in check, to keep us comfortable with less, and to make us second-guess our ambitions.
The reality is this: money doesn’t define you, but it does empower you. When used well, wealth can help you fuel change, invest in communities, and lift up those who need it most. The resources you accumulate are tools, not sins. And when you claim your right to wealth unapologetically, you give yourself the space to make an impact on your terms. Building a brand that reflects this power becomes an unstoppable force for both personal and professional freedom.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities for Growth
If you’ve ever been told to tone down your ambition, you’re not alone. These “friendly reminders” come from colleagues, family members, or even potential clients who think they’re helping you “stay grounded.” It’s almost as if they’re saying, “We don’t mind if you’re successful, as long as you don’t make us uncomfortable.”
But here’s where the shift happens: Instead of shrinking to fit their comfort zones, let’s turn these moments into opportunities. Opportunities to grow, to reaffirm our goals, and to refine our brands to speak to those who genuinely value our vision. Building an extraordinary brand isn’t about meeting others’ expectations; it’s about creating a platform that aligns with our highest aspirations, no matter how unapologetic or ambitious they may be.
Practical Steps to Embrace Your Wealth Mindset
It’s one thing to believe you deserve wealth; it’s another to make it part of your daily life and business practices. Here’s how to make that shift tangible:
- Declare Your Ambition. Whether it’s through social media, a client conversation, or your website, let your audience know that you are serious about your success. Speak openly about your goals. Show prospective clients that you’re committed to delivering high-value results because you value your work—and they should too.
- Set Premium Standards. Extraordinary brands are built on clear standards of quality and excellence. From pricing to client selection, decide what you’re willing to offer and at what level. Setting premium standards isn’t about being inaccessible; it’s about showing that your expertise has depth and value that demands investment.
- Know Your Impact. Wealth isn’t just for you; it’s a resource to create change. Define what matters to you outside of profit. Maybe it’s giving back to causes that resonate with you, investing in other women-led businesses, or creating scholarships for future leaders. Whatever it is, allow your financial success to support that cause. Uncommon wealth is about building a legacy that’s rooted in more than just numbers.
- Stand Tall When Others Try to Minimize Your Worth. When someone questions your ambition or tells you that loving money is “unprofessional,” don’t take the bait. Instead, respond with clarity and strength. You can say things like, “I’m dedicated to my goals, and I hope you find that same focus for yourself.” Or even, “I’m comfortable with my values, and I wish you well on your path.” Remember, their discomfort with your ambition is not your problem.
- Value Your Network, But Filter Out the Naysayers. Surround yourself with peers, mentors, and clients who respect and even celebrate your goals. Let your network be a source of empowerment, not limitation. An extraordinary brand thrives in the presence of allies who see the potential in your ambition and support your vision for uncommon wealth.
The Freedom in Uncommon Wealth
Your journey to wealth as a woman consultant isn’t just about financial gains; it’s about creating an extraordinary brand that has the power to elevate, disrupt, and inspire. By embracing your ambition and standing unapologetically in your pursuit of success, you’re not only changing your own life but opening doors for others. You’re shattering ceilings and setting a new standard, showing the world that women can lead, earn, and impact on a grand scale.
Let’s reclaim the narrative around wealth and ambition for what it truly is: an opportunity to build an enduring legacy. When you craft a brand that reflects your values, that speaks to your expertise, and that values wealth as a tool for change, you’re no longer limited by anyone’s expectations but your own.
So, here’s to building uncommon wealth, owning our ambition, and creating brands that are as bold and extraordinary as we are. And may your success light the way for countless women to come.
PS Master the Art of Saying No Without Sacrificing Your Professionalism or Peace
Saying no doesn’t have to be stressful or awkward. With Boundary Setting Scripts, you’ll gain the confidence to assert yourself gracefully, maintain your peace of mind, and ensure your boundaries are respected—all while preserving your professionalism and relationships. It’s time to lead with clarity and reclaim your power.
