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When redditor u/xprincesskitx posed the question to the r/AskWomen community: "What's something society deems inappropriate for women but you absolutely love about yourself?" the responses were both empowering and eye-opening. Women shared their experiences, highlighting the persistent societal pressures and expectations placed on them, while also affirming that these norms are completely baseless. The uplifting part? These 25 women are boldly rejecting those outdated standards.
Here’s how women are confidently defying these outdated norms and embracing their true selves:
1. "I love that I have a 'high body count.' I thoroughly enjoyed my 20s, exploring relationships and meeting fascinating people. I have no regrets—those experiences taught me so much about others and myself. Now in my 30s, I feel at peace knowing I’ve satisfied my curiosities and lived life to the fullest."
2. "I have no interest in becoming a mother."
3. "I’ve always been plus-size, and my entire life, I’ve been bombarded with messages from media, fashion, and society that being 'fat' is undesirable. They claim it’s unfeminine, grotesque, unattractive, and ugly. But honestly, I absolutely love my curvy body and wouldn’t trade it for anything."
"I believe my body represents femininity, abundance, sex appeal, and beauty. At 17, I decided to stop caring about societal expectations and started living authentically in my own skin. And guess what? Most people I’ve met have celebrated my body just as much as I do.
Over the years, I’ve had many partners—some conventionally attractive—who adored me and treated me like royalty. I’ve surrounded myself with friends who reject diet culture and appreciate my beauty for what it is. I can be stylish, trendy, and confident just like anyone else. Contrary to what movies and ads suggest, people don’t mock or judge me for living my truth. While fatphobia exists, I’ve found it’s more prevalent in media and online than in real life. Often, it’s rooted in someone trying to sell you something or projecting their own insecurities. I’m completely comfortable in my skin, and people are drawn to that confidence. They admire me for my self-love, not in spite of it."
4. "I’ve often been told that I’ll never get married unless I change how I speak or live. People would say things like, ‘Men don’t like career-driven women,’ or ‘You’re too independent.’ Well, I’m still single, and I couldn’t be happier. I get to live life on my terms and love myself unconditionally."
5. "As a woman with tattoos, I never realized how many men find them unattractive. But I love my tattoos and choose not to surround myself with people who judge me for them."
"Tattoos! Even though they’re more accepted now, they’re still looked down upon by older generations."
6. "I love being sexually liberated. When I was single, I enjoyed exploring my sexuality without shame or regret. I’m proud of my freedom and have no apologies for it."
"Absolutely! I’ve always been frustrated when people claim that women who enjoy casual sex lack self-respect. I’ve never seen the connection between consensual intimacy and self-worth. If everyone involved is happy and enjoying themselves, why should I feel any shame?"
"It’s amusing to me when others feel threatened by this. An ex once tried to shame me for my high sex drive, but I’ve always been able to keep emotions separate from casual encounters."
7. "I appreciate my confrontational nature. I don’t go looking for arguments, but I won’t hesitate to call out irritating behavior when others stay silent. I’ve been labeled with plenty of harsh names because of it, but it doesn’t bother me."
8. "I’m not ‘nice,’ and I’m proud of that. I’m kind and considerate, but I refuse to be overly accommodating all the time. I believe more women should embrace saying ‘NO’ without feeling the need to explain themselves. Sometimes, ‘NO’ is a complete sentence."
9. "I adore my piercings! I have 13 in total, including two on my face, one of which is a septum piercing. While some people think it detracts from my appearance, I find it enhances my unique style. I love it too much to ever consider removing it."
10. "As a masculine lesbian with tattoos, I take pride in not seeking validation from men, desiring their company, or relying on them in any way."
11. "I frequently travel solo, often hitchhiking, stealth camping, and backpacking. Occasionally, I opt for more conventional backpacking trips with hostels. People always warn me about the dangers, suggesting I carry a gun or pepper spray. However, I rely solely on my instincts and intelligence, which have kept me safe so far."
12. "I enjoy learning skills traditionally associated with men, such as changing a flat tire. I’ve come to realize how vital these abilities are for everyone, just as much as cooking and self-care."
13. "While it might seem superficial, my height and flat chest used to be sources of insecurity for me. People often commented that tall women or those without curves resembled men. However, I’ve come to embrace these traits. As a college athlete specializing in cross country and track and field, my body is perfectly suited for my sport, and I’ve learned to appreciate its functionality."
14. "A few years ago, I decided to stop shaving. To be honest, I find my armpit hair to be quite beautiful."
15. "I take pride in my physical strength. For instance, I feel a sense of accomplishment when I open a jar of pickles on my own without needing to ask someone else for help. I prefer to rely on myself rather than seeking assistance."
16. "I have no desire for sex, romantic relationships, or having children. Despite being told I’ll change my mind or that I’m being naive, I remain firm in my decision and don’t let others’ opinions affect me."
17. "I appreciate my straightforwardness at work. I skip small talk and get straight to the point, asking questions or voicing concerns when necessary. Even if it’s not always well-received, I know my honesty earns respect."
"This approach extends to my personal life as well. I communicate clearly and directly, leaving no room for confusion. I have no tolerance for passive-aggressive behavior, as it often leads to unnecessary conflicts in relationships, whether familial or otherwise.
People always know where they stand with me. I’m not afraid of confrontation, and I believe it can be constructive rather than hostile. It’s simply the most transparent and efficient way to resolve issues."
18. "I appreciate that I lack maternal instincts. Just because I have the biological ability to bear children doesn’t mean I feel compelled to become a mother."
19. "I take pride in not coddling men. If my straightforwardness upsets you, that’s not my concern. I won’t tolerate dismissive behavior or make excuses for it. If you care, you know how to reach out."
20. "I value my ambition and my role as the financial decision-maker in my family. I’m not afraid to take calculated risks to achieve my goals."
21. "I embrace having larger breasts, even though society often unfairly associates them with promiscuity or being 'too much.' Breasts symbolize womanhood, motherhood, and fertility, yet modern culture sometimes views them as inappropriate or excessive, which I find absurd."
22. "I take pride in being traditional and old-fashioned as a woman, even though my political views are more progressive."
"While I have a successful career, I still plan to take a sabbatical if I have children. I find joy in cooking and maintaining a home, and I fully intend to take my husband’s last name unless he prefers to take mine. Additionally, I’m drawn to men who have a provider mindset, even though I’m fully capable of supporting myself."
23. "I love being content staying at home and doing nothing. I’m not sure if this is common among women, but I dislike feeling pressured to go out and socialize when I’d rather relax."
24. "I enjoy going braless in public and feeling comfortable in my own skin."
25. "I cherish my solitude. While I have a few close friends, I prefer my own company above all else. I never feel lonely or bored, and I can’t fathom wanting to be around someone constantly, as in a marriage. After living with someone for eight years in my 20s, I vowed never to do it again. I’ve had relationships over the years, but I’m never actively seeking one, which seems to confuse many people."
