10 Gender Narratives Women Can Break to Bloom

Have you ever felt like you were playing by the wrong “rules”, but didn’t know the right ones? 

Are you experiencing the awkward “ick” vibe at work, in a relationship, or in life? Do you sometimes feel like you just don’t fit?

Throughout our lifespan there are times when we simply outgrow our circumstances. When we find ourselves trying to fit into a job, relationship or lifestyle that no longer serves our needs, desires or values, it’s an inauthentic move. It can feel suffocating, anxiety-provoking, uncomfortable, irritating or just plain wrong. This is the feeling that signals to us that it’s time to pull our focus inward — and maybe change some things.

Studies show that inauthenticity can affect mental health in young women. The culprit? Gender expectations are stifling young girls (and big girls) into their very own Glass Box. When she becomes more educated, healthy, stylish, genuine, independent or wise, it can threaten a certain crowd. Something seems to shatter regardless of the direction in which she grows. Change is hard to swallow for some.

But when women buy into the tired, preconceived notions of what a female is supposed to do, think, wear or say, we perpetuate the myth that women must be anything in particular in order to be liked and right at all times. 

The good news? Glass shatters. We can all choose our time to break through limiting societal beliefs in the name of freedom and authenticity, and Spring provides a beautiful backdrop.

When we avoid uncomfortable situations — like taking a good hard look at our lives — this is called experiential avoidance. It actually maintains or exacerbates psychological distress. Conversely, when we bravely challenge false beliefs in our own lives, we can receive positive results in return. This makes it exponentially more likely we will face adversity, gain confidence and continue to make healthy changes in the future. 

See if you can create a little experiment of your own this week. Below are the ten most popular gender narratives that hold women back along with suggestions for how to actionably challenge these beliefs in your own life:

Be Small

Challenge this: Physically open your body (laying down or standing with arms and legs spread wide) and look to the sky. Speak one truth you’ve been holding back with grace, love and power.

Be Soft

Challenge this: Do one thing that makes you feel strong or seen today, like advocating for yourself. We rarely recruit strength until life calls for it, but this is also in our control. 

Be Fixed

Challenge this: Choose one physical or mental attribute you’ve spent time and energy on fixing for someone else and find love for it instead. 

Bonus: research the Japanese concept of Wabi Sabi and use it as a guide. 

Be Dependent

Challenge this: Write down the things you would do if you had a partner (romantic, business or otherwise). Do you truly need to be dependent upon someone else for every one of those dreams, activities, desires?

Be Chosen 

Challenge this: Enjoy a date with yourself. Plan a museum visit, a lunch or simply a long walk in a new neighborhood.

Be Stifled

Challenge this: Feel your emotions, out loud! What injustices do you face today? What breaks your heart? Who do you need to set boundaries with out of pure self love? Scream, shake (really) and let it out.

Be Less

Challenge this: Make a move that sets you exactly where you want to be without entertaining the belief that you are less worthy (than a man or the person next to you). State your reasons for a promotion or divide household chores evenly with your partner. 

Be the Exception

Challenge this: Help yourself or another female change a gender based narrative, fill a role or complete an activity typically reserved for men. Did you know you could pay to race cars?!

Be Everything

Challenge this: Be nothing. For an hour or a day. Notice your compulsion to serve, support, or check things off your to-do list. Leisure and silence is underrated. As a neuroscience-based meditation teacher I can tell you this will cause a necessary but uncomfortable shift. 

Be Sexy… but Sweet

Challenge this: Update your definition of sexy according to you. Powerful, creative, dominant, submissive, nurturing…

Keep this list somewhere in your home as a visual prompt to remind you that change is always possible. Pro Tip: move it’s location every two weeks to avoid habituating (becoming “blind”) to it!

 Gianna Biscontini is a behavior scientist and lifestyle design coach. She is author of F~ckless: A Guide to Wild, Unencumbered Freedoms


GET THE BOOK BY
ERIN FALCONER!

Erin shows overscheduled, overwhelmed women how to do less so that they can achieve more. Traditional productivity books—written by men—barely touch the tangle of cultural pressures that women feel when facing down a to-do list. How to Get Sh*t Done will teach you how to zero in on the three areas of your life where you want to excel, and then it will show you how to off-load, outsource, or just stop giving a damn about the rest.

46 Responses to 10 Gender Narratives Women Can Break to Bloom

  1. The dream of owning a home is very common but some people achieve their dream by taking the right step at the right time. There are many investment opportunities that are offering the best and most affordable housing societies in Islamabad in installments. societies in islamabad

  2. Get the latest updates of seriale turcesti subtitrat in Romana on our website. Which you can watch in your free time.

  3. Get the free sports apks from our website through which you can enjoy playing games with your family members and friends.

  4. Everyone! Hurry up and read this! Not only is it beneficial, but it’s even free! I really like to see your blog. It’s like I’m having eyes to see the world more and more properly. I’m so glad I found you. Please continue to post good comments. 안전토토사이트

  5. I read your article in an instant. You have no idea how hard I’ve been trying to find a good article on this topic for a week. I think that’s why your writing shines more. Thank you so much for sharing good information. I’ll look for more of your posts. And I think my writing on the topic you wrote will help you. I hope you come to my blog and read it. 메이저토토사이트

  6. Lee Harrell says:

    Satellite VU wants to become part of the mission to introduce satellite systems in low orbit together with SpaceX. Scotland’s Space Tech Firm Satellite Vu Gets a New Launch Deal with SpaceX. This cooperation is required to work on energy -efficient components of missiles that they retained the power of their engines longer.

  7. Good ! I like your message and think like you. 😛

  8. Good ! I like your message and think like you Hope to see your message again. 😛

  9. Hotrabattecom says:

    Even though I am here for the first time, I am very impressed with your post. Thanks for sharing. These challenges sound super interesting. Try it! Be fit with BenFit Gutschein

  10. On your site, I finally discovered the information I was looking for. You can’t possibly be happy than this. I’d want to express my gratitude for publishing this. Please keep the positive feedback coming.

  11. 789bet says:

    The most advanced online you to experience in one place.

  12. totoforce says:

    Wow, you’re so smart. I’ve learned that I’ve been thinking very superficially. I want to keep sharing this information with you. 먹튀검증사이트

  13. totoguy says:

    Thank you for your good writing. Your writing inspires me. There is a similar article on my blog, so I hope you visit! I’ll leave my blog below. 토토사이트

  14. TOTOMAX says:

    This is a fantastic article. This is, I think, one of the best written works. Your work is wonderful and inspiring. Thanks once again. 토토사이트추천

  15. Stephanie Carole says:

    As a woman, this article is really uplifting. http://www.jblflooringsolutions.com

  16. Marissa Collins says:

    I enjoyed reading this article. Thank you for this! dayton toyota dealers

  17. your work was exemplary. The information provided was very helpful and articulate. Keep recording.

  18. I don’t even know how I returned, however i presumed this kind of submit has been practical. Cheers!

  19. totositerank says:

    Thanks for sharing such an amazing post with us it is very informative and helpful.

  20. Great work man you have post a great post it will help people very much keep it do more for people like that.

  21. I love reading this article because each woman must know her worth and never settle for less ladies. You are not fragile but stronger than yesterday. I love how this article encourages women.

  22. totositerank says:

    Hi there, I simply hopped over in your website by way of StumbleUpon. Now not one thing I’d typically learn, but I favored your emotions none the less. Thank you for making something worth reading.

  23. totositerank says:

    Amazing how this article help me as a human being that’s help me a lot! This has been a really wonderful post. Thanks for providing this info.

  24. betsarang says:

    I have read it, but the information is still less than mine, i am wanting to learn more

  25. betsarang says:

    Extremely decent blog and articles. I am realy extremely glad to visit your blog. Presently I am discovered which I really need.

  26. I check your blog regular and attempt to take in something from your blog. Much obliged to you and sitting tight for your new post

  27. what a nice article i found , i was looking it for a long time , i been searching it for so long now that i found out really help me.

  28. I’ve been reading all the articles related to 플레이포커머니상 for the past hour, but I don’t know why I saw this post now. It seems like very useful information.

  29. irontmp says:

    Extremely decent blog and articles financial advisors gold coast. I am really extremely glad to visit your blog. Presently I am discovered what I really need.

  30. zora says:

    With the Chartered Investment & Management Accountant® designation from the CIMA Institute, get a special pathway to a dual specialization in one qualification.

  31. prontopanels says:

    It’s really great. Thank you for providing a quality article.
    Ashvam Heat Proof Double Tin

  32. Subhash Shastri says:

    This is the one of the most important information for me. And I am feeling glad reading your article. The article is really excellent
    Indian Astrology Future Career Predictions

  33. harivanshtours says:

    I feel that your blog is a good site that provides useful information to anyone. I respect you and ask you to visit my site
    Best Travel Agency in Jaipur

  34. companysuggestion says:

    Wonderful job. I really enjoyed this blog of yours, Too cool to have like this. Hey pretty!! Thanks for posting, You have great blog here. keep it up.
    One Person Company Registration

  35. maharanacab says:

    Good web site you have got here.. It’s hard to find quality writing like yours these days.

    Luxury Bus Rental in Jaipur

  36. toto365pro says:

    What’s up it’s me, I am also visiting this website daily, this website
    is genuinely nice and the visitors are in fact sharing fastidious thoughts.

  37. That is really interesting, You’re an overly professional blogger.

    I’ve joined your rss feed and look forward to searching for extra of your
    great post. Additionally, I have shared your site in my social networks

  38. For the reason that the admin of this website is working, no
    doubt very shortly it will be well-known, due to its quality contents.

  39. Every weekend i used to visit this web page, for the reason that i want enjoyment, as this this
    web site conations truly pleasant funny information too.

  40. Deen says:

    I had just recently started hunting for Business Development After six hours of nonstop Google searching, I eventually found it on your website. I’m curious as to why Google doesn’t place this kind of educational websites at the top of the list. Typically, the most popular websites are crammed with junk.

  41. Great article to read. thank you for your article.

  42. With the beautiful bridal bed sheets in Pakistan from Aspire Bedding, you can turn your bedroom into a luxurious heaven. Crafted from premium materials and adorned with intricate designs, these bed sheets will add a touch of elegance to any bedroom decor. Shop now and indulge in the ultimate comfort and style with Aspire Bedding’s bridal bed sheets.

  43. Get ready to elevate your wardrobe with the latest collection of new dresses from Mannat Clothing, featuring trendy styles perfect for any occasion.

  44. Looking for the perfect blend of western charm and modern flair? Look no further than Panache Apparel, your one-stop shop for chic and comfortable western clothing.

  45. Qhaaf Bedding is a well-known online brand specializing in Pakistan’s bed sheets. They offer a vast selection of high-quality and reasonably priced bedding options. Qhaaf Bedding’s bed sheets are crafted from premium materials and are available in various sizes, colors, and designs to cater to the diverse needs of their customers. With its easy-to-use website and efficient delivery services, Qhaaf Bedding is the top choice for those looking for comfortable and fashionable bed sheet online in Pakistan.

  46. Immerse yourself in the world of fashion and sophistication with Kujvlo Clothing’s exquisite collection of ladies’ clothes design, offering a diverse array of meticulously crafted designs to elevate your wardrobe.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.