Broughton: You vs. You — empowering women to step into their purpose

Teniqua Broughton

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October is Women’s Small Business Month, a time to celebrate the innovation, resilience and determination of women entrepreneurs. While it’s important to acknowledge the external success of women in business, the real challenge often lies within — You vs. You.

In a world filled with comparisons, it’s easy to get caught up in what others are doing. But success, fulfillment and purpose come from focusing inward, reclaiming your journey, identifying your unique gifts and stepping fully into your purpose. Let’s break down the You vs. You mindset to help you reconnect with who you are, take ownership of your life and embrace the strengths that make you a successful leader.

Y – You (your own yokemate)

Who are you at your core? What do you stand for? This is the foundation of your journey. Being your own yokemate means staying connected to your values and purpose, guiding your life based on your beliefs.

With so many distractions, ask yourself: Are you living in alignment with who you are meant to be? Are your actions a reflection of your deepest values? If not, it’s time to reassess. The first step in the You vs. You challenge is realizing that only you hold the key to your growth and success.

Your purpose is unique to you, and no one else can fulfill it. When you understand what drives you and what values guide your decisions, you can live authentically and with purpose. The world needs what only you can bring, and it all starts with recognizing the power within yourself.

Call to action: Reflect on one core value or belief that drives your decisions. How does it align with your purpose? This is your starting point.

O – Ownership

Ownership is more than accountability — it’s about fully embracing your role as the author of your story. As women in business, we face pressure to meet external expectations, but true power lies in owning your actions, thoughts, and the way you show up in the world.

Ownership starts with self-awareness and self-love. It means accepting who you are, both strengths and weaknesses, and using that knowledge to grow. No one else can take responsibility for your development. If you want others to take you seriously, you must first take yourself seriously.

How do you hold yourself accountable? Do your actions reflect your words and intentions? Taking ownership requires honesty with yourself, making tough decisions, and committing to growth, even when it’s uncomfortable.

Call to action: Identify one area of your life where you can take more ownership. How can you hold yourself accountable and show up more authentically in your business or personal life?

U – Unique

Your uniqueness is your greatest asset. As a businesswoman, your individual gifts, talents and experiences set you apart from everyone else. Yet, many of us fall into the trap of comparing ourselves to others, downplaying our strengths because they don’t match someone else’s.

But here’s the truth: The world doesn’t need another copy of someone else — it needs you. Your gifts are your superpowers, and when you embrace what makes you different, you bring immense value to your business, your clients, and the world.

Rather than focusing on what others are doing, focus on maximizing your strengths. The most successful women in business lean into what sets them apart and use it to create something extraordinary. Whether it’s a unique perspective, skillset or life experience, what you have to offer is invaluable.

Call to action: What makes you unique? Reflect on your gifts, talents or experiences that differentiate you from others. How can you use them to make a difference in your business or community?

Conclusion: Embracing the You vs. You journey

Women’s Small Business Month celebrates the hard work and impact of women entrepreneurs. But behind every successful woman is a mindset that says: The only competition that matters is with myself.

When you commit to the You vs. You journey, you embrace personal growth, accountability and the unique gifts that set you apart. This is where true success begins — by focusing on becoming the best version of yourself and stepping fully into your purpose.

Editor’s note: Teniqua Broughton is CEO of Phoenix-based VerveSimone Consulting. She is the author of “My Leader, My Self: Self-Awareness for Harnessing Super Powers. Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.