Nollywood actress Etinosa Idemudia has urged women to stop defining their worth by marriage or motherhood. She emphasized that true value comes from self‑respect and the pursuit of personal dreams, independent of societal expectations.
Self‑Respect as the Foundation
Speaking about the lessons she would pass on to her daughter, Etinosa said, “If I don’t teach my daughter anything, I would teach her how to respect herself, how to value herself, because a woman who respects herself can never be disrespected by anyone.”
Hard Work Isn’t the Whole Story
Addressing success in the film industry, she noted that hard work alone does not guarantee recognition. “Hard work is part of it, but I can never say that hard work is all of it because there are some people who act far more than me, who work far harder than me, yet I might be more recognised or successful than them.” She likened this to the biblical principle that while Paul plants and Apollos waters, it is God who brings the increase.
Women Must Work Twice as Hard
Etinosa highlighted the extra hurdles women often face, stating, “I feel we women need to work twice as hard to get the recognition or applause for what a man will work half as hard for. So, as a woman, you need to be on top of your game.”
Ignore the Noise
She also warned women not to let criticism or false accusations shake their confidence. “You need to close your ears to people who say, ‘Oh, she didn’t get it by merit. She went to sleep with somebody.’ Women will never stop calling a successful woman names. So block your ears to the noise. Stay grounded. Stay focused. Study people who have made it ahead of you. Do not envy. Be inspired. Do not be jealous.”
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