Empowering Women: Navigating Society’s Expectations on Health and Relationships

Let Go of Trying to Be Perfect and Just Be You…

Ok, friend. You’re a mom, a wife, a co-worker, a leader, a daughter, a sister, etc., and you have heavy burdens that keep you up at night and society forces you to keep going and wants you to do your thing perfectly, all the time with nor slip-ups. It’s a lot of pressure. I get it. It’s time for us, as women, to have the conversation. Let’s talk about how these expectations impact our health, relationships, and sexuality – all the things that truly matter. Please keep in mind, you are not alone. Perfection is not the goal.

The Myth of the Perfect Woman   

Society has long painted a picture of the “perfect woman”: one who flawlessly balances a thriving career, a harmonious family life, and a sizzling romantic relationship. But let’s face it, these standards can take a toll on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. The pursuit of perfection can lead to anxiety, burnout, and even health issues. It’s time we break free from this illusion and embrace the beautiful messiness of being human.

Embracing Imperfections   

Here’s the truth: you don’t have to be a perfect mother, wife, daughter, spouse, or partner. It’s okay to have confusion & chaos, vulnerability, and uncertainty. These imperfections make you real, relatable, and HUMAN. Your value isn’t determined by, “what they say,” it’s in your unique experiences and the rises and falls along the way.

Choosing You: The Balancing Act   

It’s important to remember that saying “yes” to others should never mean saying “no” to yourself. It took me years to realize this. Decades actually. Balancing your own needs with the demands of the world requires self-awareness and self-love. Take a step back and ask yourself: “Am I truly happy with where I am right now?” Prioritize self-care, SET BOUNDARIES and know that it’s perfectly acceptable to put your well-being first.

Health and Well-being   

Stress, anxiety, and the constant race to meet expectations can wreak havoc on our bodies and minds. It’s essential to cultivate healthy habits that nourish you from the inside out. Exercise, meditation, a balanced diet, and seeking professional help when needed are not just options – they’re acts of self-love.

Relationship Realities   

Real relationships are far from the fairy tales we grew up with. They require effort, compromise, and open communication. There’s going to be disappointed. There’s going to be confusion and there’s going to be pain. The pressure to be the perfect partner can lead to feelings of inadequacy and resentment. Remember, the key is being authentic and honest. Your partner, family, and friends will appreciate your genuine self more than any facade you might put on.

Empowering Sexuality   

Lastly, let’s discuss sexuality. Society often dictates how women should express their desires and navigate their sexual identities. But the truth is that your body and your choices are yours alone. Embrace your desires, communicate openly with your partner, and never feel ashamed for expressing your needs. Your sexuality is an integral part of who you are, and it should always be embraced with confidence and respect.

These helpful pieces of advice brings me to this. It’s time to release the weight of societal expectations and embrace the freedom of being yourself. You are a mosaic of experiences, emotions, and dreams, and that’s what makes you extraordinary. Choose to live for yourself, celebrate your imperfections, and cherish the journey – because “between us girls,” there’s no one “perfect” way to be the woman everyone wants you to be. Let’s just focus on the woman, you wan to be. Even on the bad days.

My friends at the Center for Functional Psychotherapy are committed to promoting authentic self-expression and well-being among women. Through open conversations and support networks, the group helps women to navigate societal expectations, embrace their individuality, and lead fulfilling lives on their own terms. Join the movement and let’s rewrite the narrative, one empowered woman at a time. Are you in?

The Center for Functional Psychotherapy is located at 193 Route 9, Suite 2D, Englishtown NJ. To learn more about heir services, visit http://www.thecft.org/