Breaking the Mold: 10 Things Women Should Never Be Ashamed Of”
As women, we’re often burdened with the idea that we should be ashamed of ourselves, from a number on a scale to aging or not having the perfect body. But it’s time to reject those lies that society has been feeding us. You are beautiful, smart, and valuable to this world. In short, you matter, and your story inspires others every day. There is absolutely no reason to be ashamed of the life you have built for yourself. After all, nobody is perfect, and that’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Here’s a list of the top 10 things women should never be ashamed of.
1. Your Weight
Say it with me again: your weight does not equal your worth! Whether you struggle to keep the pounds on or that new fad diet never seems to get you the results you want, remember that fitness and beauty come in all sizes and shapes. And get off social media, because that Instagram algorithm is in no way showing you what real women look like! The key to a healthy life is to listen to your body, nourish it with good food, and move it in ways that make you happy. You don’t owe anyone a certain body type, and you should never feel ashamed of the one you have.
2. Your Choice of Partner or Marital Status
Whether you decide to get married, get a divorce, remain single, or be in a committed partnership without putting a title on it, you don’t have to explain your choices to anyone. You are free to choose whatever partner you want—love is love, in the end. Your happiness and well-being are what matter most. Don’t let societal pressures dictate your relationship status. Your life, your rules.
3. Your Age
Age really is just a number. If you feel young, channel that youthful energy! You are never too old to learn new things, and ultimately, age equals wisdom. With age, we get to know ourselves better, and the older we get, the more comfortable we feel in our own skin. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! Embrace every year, every wrinkle, and every new experience. Your journey is uniquely yours, and it’s a beautiful one.
4. Wearing Makeup
Go natural or contour to your heart’s desire. Whether you prefer a natural look or you love going out in full-glam (makeup can feel like armor for many), no one has the right to comment on that, and it doesn’t define your beauty. You should go out into the world feeling your best and ignore what the haters say. Makeup is a form of self-expression, and it’s entirely up to you how you choose to use it.
5. Your Career Choice
Some women decide to stay home and manage the household and their families (which, let’s be clear, is a full-time job) while others go out and climb that career ladder. Similarly, if you opt for a job that people don’t think is ‘good enough’ or work in a non-traditional field, that’s totally fine. Your job contributes to society’s functioning, and all that matters is that you love what you do. Your career is a reflection of your passions and skills, not a measure of your worth.
6. Your Education
College may be the right choice for some, and it may not be the right choice for others. Sure, you can argue the importance of having a degree, but there are many ways to gain valuable, employable skills that make you an asset to whatever industry you choose to work in. Don’t feel embarrassed about your education level—if you have the conviction, experience, and intelligence, you can accomplish anything you put your mind to. Education comes in many forms, and a formal degree is just one of them.
7. Putting Yourself First
As women, we often feel embarrassed or ashamed when we don’t put others first. We’re conditioned to act maternally and take care of others instead of ourselves, but it’s okay to prioritize yourself. In fact, it’s a good thing and can be an important part of self-care and establishing self-worth. We all need to recharge. Prioritizing your own needs isn’t selfish; it’s essential for your mental and physical health.
8. Your Hairstyle
Despite what society and the patriarchy tell us, our hair doesn’t define us as women. Having long hair isn’t necessarily the key to being feminine, and having short hair doesn’t make you masculine or a tomboy. Whether you go long, short, dyed, or naturally gray, hair is simply hair, even if you decide to rock no hair at all. Your hairstyle is a personal choice that should make you feel confident and comfortable.
9. Your S-e-x-uality
Some women may be demonized for expressing their s-e-x-uality or liking s-e-x. Society likes to obsess over “body count,” but harnessing your s-e-x-uality is just another way to feel empowered. Learn what you like and how to communicate that to your partners. The number of people you’ve slept with doesn’t define what type of person you are, and what you do in the bedroom is 100% your business and your business only. Embrace your desires and your body without shame.
10. Crying
Sometimes, to give off an image of strength, we feel the need to put up a steely facade. But it’s okay to cry and have a breakdown once in a while! Life is stressful, and we all have a breaking point. Don’t be embarrassed to let it out. There’s nothing quite as cathartic as a therapeutic cry, which can help you let out all those pent-up emotions. Showing emotion isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of being human.
