Hello, my name is Mayra, and I am not a “girl’s girl.”
It’s a decision I made long ago when I was repeatedly denied access to any of my brother’s hangouts. I spent most of my formative years trying to compete with the boys. From playing soccer to selling candy, I was constantly trying to prove myself.
Eventually, after the wounds healed, I realized I didn’t need the approval of my brothers. For one, I was a way better soccer player, but there were also bigger issues at hand and that my struggle for female independence would not end on the playground but carry on well into my adulthood.
My parents played a big role in the gender separation. My brothers were patted on the back for being rough and tough. I, however, was held to a much higher standard. We are taught at an early age that young girls are meant to be pretty and polished but I’ve always felt strongly that boys and girls should occupy a happy medium, getting rid of any stereotype.
Yes, I know that in the real world this may be far from reality, but I like to believe that I too am breaking away from this stereotype. I have no desire to be a modern housewife and have sanitized floors but rather a successful career with a corner office removing myself from any situations where I would need a man to take care of me. Just like Chaka Kahn once crooned, “I’m every woman, it’s all in me.”
Women are acting more like men and doing it with a smile and heels on. Many may see it as unconventional, but women have been fighting to break away from any gender stereotypes since the ‘20s and, therefore, I feel now more than ever that women should reject any idea of what a girl should be and occupy a happy gender medium. But more importantly, do what you want, even if it deviates from society’s standard for what a girl should be.
I feel proud of my decision I made long ago and am hopeful that there will come a time that being a woman will no longer seen as a possible set back but as a badge of honor.