As women, we’re often raised 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 don’t listen to those lies that society has been feeding you. You’re beautiful, smart, and valuable to this world. In short, you matter, and your story inspires others every day, so there’s no reason to be ashamed of this life that you’ve built for yourself. After all, no one is perfect, and that’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Here’s a list of the top 10 things women shouldn’t ever be ashamed of.
1.Weight
Say it again with me: weight does not equal 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!
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’re free to choose whatever partner you want—love is love, in the end.
3. Age
Age really is just a number. If you feel young, channel that youthful energy! You’re never too old to learn new things, and ultimately, age equals wisdom. Age helps us 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!
4. Wearing makeup
Go natural or contour to your heart’s desire. Whether you’re a natural girlie or you prefer to go out in all-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 how you feel best and ignore what the haters say.
5. 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.
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6. 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 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.
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.
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 deem 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.
9. Sexuality
Some women may be demonized for expressing their sexuality or liking sex. Society likes to obsess over body count, but harnessing your sexuality is just another way to feel empowered. Learn what you like and how to communicate that to 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.
10. Crying
Sometimes, to give off an image of strength, we feel the need to put up this steely facade. But it’s ok 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.
