Empowerment is the process of gaining power, authority, or control over one's own life, circumstances, or environment. It involves developing confidence, skills, and resources to make decisions and effect change, either individually or collectively. The term is often used in various contexts, such as personal growth, social movements, or organizational development.

At its core, empowerment is about enabling people to overcome limitations—whether those are internal (like self-doubt) or external (like systemic barriers)—and take charge of their destinies. For example, in a social context, it might mean giving marginalized groups the tools and opportunities to advocate for themselves. In a workplace, it could involve delegating authority to employees so they feel more invested and capable.

The concept can get abstract, but it’s grounded in action: it’s not just feeling powerful, it’s doing something with it.