Society is just now learning the multifaceted power of women, which upsets misogynists. As women, we do not fit the complexes they put on us, such as being the “good girl,” and “beauty or brains.” We also don’t fit the stereotypes of being “too passive,” “emotional,” and “unfit to lead”.
Most of all, we don’t fall into the traps of internalized misogyny. To stay empowered, here is a list of ways to handle people who underestimate you as a woman and fight everyday sexism:
1. Remain Confident
We’ve all experienced walking into a room and feeling like the black sheep. You can feel the eyeballs directed at you as people wonder why you’re in the same room as them. Regardless, keep a straight posture and maintain eye contact. Body language is an important communicator that shows your confidence and makes you feel confident.
2. Question Bias
Nothing puts a bully in their place like restating their ignorant statements. Shift the depreciating tone back to the sender, where they can reexamine their intentions. If someone says, “You’re pretty assertive for a woman”, you can respond by saying, “I’m pretty assertive for a woman…Can you explain what you mean by that?”
This technique highlights their negativity and makes them squirm as they search for words to justify such a mindless statement.
3. Reject Stereotypes
People may tell you how you should live as a woman. But you have every right to reject stereotypical suggestions. For example, if someone says something like, “You’re too ambitious. Don’t you think it’s time to settle down and start a family?” you can respond with this: “Starting a family is great for those who desire that, however, I’m choosing to live a childfree life.”
Challenge people’s expectations of how a woman should live her life by living the unique life you want for yourself.
4. Reaffirm Yourself
Many of us are bombarded with gender biases and expectations regularly, which can cause us to question ourselves. Remembering yourself who you are and why you’re qualified to do anything you work hard for is important. This can look like stating “I am” affirmations to yourself, having a pep talk in front of a mirror, or remembering everything you’ve overcome and accomplished in life. In turn, you won’t internalize negativity because you’ll be too confident to care what fears others project onto you.
5. Stay Motivated
Set goals and use your anger as fuel to accomplish what others can’t. Others may not believe in your power, but you do, and that’s more than enough. Your success will prove your capability in no time.
We’re still working through centuries of outdated expectations put on women in modern times.
Yet, we can see that historical gender roles don’t fit the image of women today. We don’t have to carry the weight of being submissive and domesticated when we now have the freedom to be as headstrong and untamed as we please.
People who underestimate women today use an old script that society should reject. Accordingly, we should respond by thriving and letting our successes outshine anyone’s bias. With these five tips, you can live your best life and fight everyday sexism.
