Author: Sagesse Bezalel
Ever settled down to comprehend the concept of only men being breadwinners? For centuries, this belief shaped how families operated, how economies were structured, and even how individuals defined their worth. But like everything else in society, even this idea has evolved, and so must we.
Traditionally, men were seen as the providers, not because they were inherently better at it, but because early human societies divided labour in a way that made men the hunters and women the caregivers. As societies developed, this division became institutionalized. During the Industrial Revolution, men earned wages while women managed the home. Laws, religious systems, and social norms cemented these roles, making breadwinning less of a choice and more of a duty, especially for men.
Even as the world modernized, the male breadwinner model persisted, deeply entangled with ideas of masculinity and success. Economic systems were built on the assumption that a man’s income would and should sustain a household. Meanwhile, women’s ambitions outside the home were often dismissed or blocked entirely.
But history tells us one consistent truth: things change.
Wars, shifting economies, and the rise of feminist movements reshaped the workplace. Women began stepping into roles they were once denied, not just out of necessity, but out of rightful demand. Today, many homes function on dual incomes. In some cases, women are the primary earners. And increasingly, families are redefining what it means to “provide.”
This evolution isn’t just about gender roles; it’s a lesson in relevance.
As a creative, this is where the story hits home. The creative industry, like society, does not reward those who cling to old models. The world is shifting tastes, technology, audiences, and platforms. If you don’t evolve, you risk becoming irrelevant.
Just as society had to move beyond the rigid “male breadwinner” narrative, creatives must also move beyond outdated mindsets, thinking one skill will carry you forever, believing only one platform matters, and refusing to learn new tools or speak new languages.
Let your craft evolve. Grow with the times, not against them!