Table 4 Representative supporting data for each second-order theme

(a) Confidence in expressing an opinion

After establishing and running my micro-business, I feel more confident in sharing my views and recommendations with my husband and in-laws

Previously my husband had control over all family matters. But now I am also supporting my family by working with him so I don't feel any hesitation in suggesting any household matter and that makes me feel confident

(b) Autonomy in decision making

Earlier my husband was the sole decision maker. But now I participate equally in all household decisions. My in-laws also consider my suggestions regarding the utilization of loan amounts and other household decisions

I take decisions related to savings, income, household expenses, and self-health care by myself

(c) Control over assets

I never owned any property in my life. But after getting a microloan, I purchased a small shop in my name

I can keep all the cash and savings independently

(d) Control over household spending

Earlier my husband had control over all the savings and he used to make a household budget. He never saved money for unexpected expenses. But now I have control over household expenses and I make sure to save money to manage any unexpected challenge in life

Being the sole earner now I manage and plan all household expenses. Being independent in spending decisions means happiness to me

(c) Basic needs are managed

My children and I slept many nights without having dinner. After starting my own business, now I can fully manage the basic needs of my children and shelter them

I couldn’t believe that one day I will be able to fulfill the basic needs of my family

(d) Improvement in living standards

We have seen some very bad days in our lives. Microloans helped us to provide good clothes for our children

I feel satisfied because now I can afford better health and education facilities for my children

(e) Self-motivated

I know that I am the only one who has to take care of my children. So, I stay motivated to earn for my family

I am motivated because I know that only through my income, I can provide good education to my children

(f) Tolerant of ambiguity

I have gone through many difficult phases in life since my childhood. Now life has turned me obstinate

I don’t have any fear to face any unexpected situation

(g) Difficulty in fulfilling family responsibilities

For doing business I have to spend the whole day at the shop. Due to this, I get very tired and I cannot cook for my children

I feel difficulty in giving proper time to children and family

(h) Difficulty in managing business

When I am at work I kept on thinking about my children. I cannot fully concentrate on my business

I have realized that running a business is more difficult for a woman in our society