Every July 4th, we celebrate America’s independence — a hard-won freedom that changed the course of history. But for millions of women, true independence remains just out of reach. For me, July 4th is more than fireworks and parades; it’s a powerful reminder of the importance of financial freedom, especially for women.

My journey to financial independence

I know firsthand how transformative financial independence can be. Early in my career, I made a conscious decision to build a life that didn’t depend on a man for security or fulfillment. That choice opened doors I never imagined. I traveled, invested in myself and made decisions on my own terms. Financial independence wasn’t just about money — it was about dignity, confidence and the freedom to shape my own destiny.

Lessons from Suze Orman: You are not on sale

One of the most pivotal moments in my journey came when I had the privilege of working closely with Suze Orman. Together, we created the Save Yourself Account at TD Ameritrade, a simple but powerful tool designed to help women take their first steps toward financial security.

Suze taught me something I’ll never forget: “You are not on sale.” Those words became a mantra for me, and they should be for every woman. Too often, women are taught — directly or indirectly — to undervalue themselves, to put others’ needs first or to believe that financial matters are “not for them.”

Suze shattered those myths for me. She showed me that taking control of your money is not just practical — it’s an act of self-respect.

The power of the Save Yourself Account

The idea behind the Save Yourself Account was simple: start with what you have, no matter how small, and make saving automatic. We wanted to remove the intimidation factor and give women a tangible way to begin. I saw how women’s lives changed when they took that first step, how their confidence grew, how they started asking for more at work, how their relationships improved because they knew they could stand on their own two feet.

The reality: Why financial freedom matters

The need for financial independence is not just theoretical. Over a third of women in relationships are financially dependent on their partner, compared with only 11% of men. This gap means that many women feel unable to leave relationships — even unhappy or unhealthy ones—because they lack the financial means to do so. Economic dependence can quietly undermine a woman’s choices, confidence and sense of security.

Five reasons why financial freedom is essential for women

1. Freedom to choose: Financial independence means you can make choices — about relationships, careers and lifestyles — without fear or compromise.
2. Dignity and self-worth: Managing your own money builds self-respect and confidence that radiates into every part of your life.
3. Security in uncertainty: Life throws curveballs. With your own financial cushion, you’re prepared for the unexpected, from job loss to health crises.
4. Breaking the cycle: When women become financially independent, they become role models for daughters, nieces, and friends, changing the narrative for the next generation.
5. True partnership: Financial independence isn’t about going it alone; it’s about bringing your full self to a relationship — equal, empowered and unafraid.

A call to action: Take charge and grow your wealth

This July 4th, I invite every woman to declare her own independence, not just by saving but by investing in her future. If you already have a savings account, it’s time to take the next step: take charge of growing your assets and start investing. Money is powerful, and we owe it to ourselves to nurture it, take care of it and help it grow.

Investing isn’t just for the wealthy or the experts, it’s for every woman who dreams of freedom, security and choice. Start with what you have, seek out resources, ask questions and know that every dollar you invest is a vote for your own independence.

Let’s make financial freedom the new American dream for women — one investment at a time.

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