Purpose
This study employs the self-determination theory as a foundation to investigate the association of trait competitiveness and self-reliance with life satisfaction while assessing the mediating role of hard work in these relationships among Indian female working professionals.

Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected from 383 Indian female working professionals in three waves, and the hypotheses were tested using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings
The findings revealed that trait competitiveness and self-reliance are both associated with the life satisfaction of female employees, and hard work mediates both of these associations.

Practical implications
Multiple implications for practitioners can be derived from the results, indicating that opportunities for self-development and self-reliance could not only encourage female employees to work harder but also lead to their overall satisfaction.

Originality/value
The findings reveal the importance of traits like competitiveness, self-reliance and hard work in promoting overall satisfaction in the lives of Indian working women. Such knowledge could help manage and promote female employees’ overall well-being.