Objective:

To analyze the centrality of work in professional women who perform paid activities and its impact on the construction of their work identity.

Methodology:

The research followed a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews and convenience sampling. Ten professional women participated, all self-employed or employed in the public or private sectors.

Results:

The interviewees' main advantage of working is financial, but they also view it as a foundation of identity and a means of contributing to society. They find meaning in work through personal development, productivity, and social recognition-key aspects for their autonomy. Regardless of their academic or professional background, the women showed a preference for working independently and having job flexibility. Despite this, they reported negative effects on their health due to workload and an imbalance between work and family life.

Limitations:

Although the sample is not representative, the findings highlight the importance of analyzing the meaning of work for young women.

Conclusions:

The meanings that participants attribute to work are shaped by their career paths and gender-related experiences, and work constitutes a central element of their professional identity.

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