Have you ever felt the weight of unspoken expectations even before you had a chance to explore your own dreams? Even before graduating college, I was repeatedly asked, “Ano gagawin mo pagkagraduate mo?” and “Pag-aaralin mo pa kapatid mo.” These familiar phrases at family gatherings reminded me that my future was never just my own—it represented the collective hopes of my family and everyone who believed in me.

As a fresh graduate stepping into the real world, my career journey is more than just finding a job. It’s about finding a balance between my personal dreams and the duty I feel as the eldest daughter in a Filipino family. Every decision, from choosing a career path to saving for the future, is interlaced with a responsibility to provide and to lead. 

I’ve learned that being the first among my cousins to graduate college and step into the workforce means every achievement carries the responsibility of setting an example. Being a role model is not merely a title. It’s a commitment that echoes in every conversation with relatives, in every proud yet scrutinizing glance at family gatherings. And more than that, there’s an added expectation of being excellent not only in my career but also inside the home, where I must prove I can care for my aging parents and support my younger siblings. 

There are times when the pressure feels overwhelming, yet I’ve come to learn that it’s okay not to have all the answers right away. Embracing mistakes and learning from each stumble is part of my growth.  I’m slowly finding that honoring my duty to my family doesn’t mean silencing my own voice or abandoning my dreams. 

It’s hard to navigate it all, but I want every woman to know that it’s okay not to have everything figured out immediately. As we celebrate Women’s Month, remember: you are powerful, capable, and can do amazing things in this world—whether you’re launching a career, shifting your path, or simply learning to trust your journey. Our lives are a blend of professional and personal challenges, and each of our paths is as unique as our individual stories. 

Let’s be kind to ourselves, trust our abilities, and embrace the process of discovering what truly resonates with us. And above all, let’s commit to supporting one another—sharing our experiences, celebrating our wins, and recognizing the hard-fought progress we make every day.