Redefining Adulthood for Feminists

I turned eighteen a few days ago, and truthfully I'm excited and thrilled to be finally legal. But I'm also apprehensive because I know that adulthood is like a roller coaster—fun but scary and can sometimes make one sick.

I know that society expects more from me now that I'm legally an adult. Not just society, but my family and friends.

If I thought societal pressures were intense then, boy am I in for it. Especially as I'm a woman. Society is always trying to tell us, women, what we can and can't do as adults. Don't get married too early, but not too late either. If you wear revealing clothing, you're a slut, but if you dress modestly, your own is too much. On and on it goes.

Women can never do right in the eyes of the patriarchy. The perfect way to be a woman is when you're a man. (I got that from Instagram)

Traditionally, adulthood is when you're expected to have your life together, get married, have kids, start making money, know how to handle your finances and be independent, all while looking fabulous and put together.

No one is interested in your emotional well-being anymore because one is now an "adult".

Growing up can often feel like a box that keeps getting tighter and tighter.

However, being a feminist means challenging and breaking free from these chains of misogyny and societal expectations, even those related to adulthood. It means advocating for a world where women can define their paths, make choices based on their desires, and embrace their individuality without judgment or double standards.

Adulthood should not be a predetermined checklist that we must adhere to. It is a personal journey filled with self-discovery, growth, and the pursuit of happiness on our terms. It's about defining success and fulfillment in ways that align with our passions, values, and aspirations, rather than fitting into traditional molds imposed by others.

As women, we often face conflicting messages about how we should behave, dress, or make life decisions. Society's contradictory expectations place us in a lose-lose situation where we are constantly scrutinized and judged, regardless of our choices. But feminism teaches us to reject these limiting narratives and reclaim our agency.

Being an adult should not mean sacrificing our emotional well-being or neglecting our mental health. It is essential to prioritize self-care, establish healthy boundaries, and seek support when needed. Embracing vulnerability and seeking emotional fulfillment is not a sign of weakness but an essential part of leading a balanced and fulfilling life.

Instead of trying to fit into society's narrow definition of adulthood, let's redefine it on our terms. Let's celebrate diversity, individuality, and the multiplicity of paths that women can choose. Let's support and uplift each other in our journeys, dismantling the patriarchy's oppressive norms along the way.

In redefining adulthood for feminists, we reject the notion that there is a "perfect" way to be a woman. We embrace our flaws, our imperfections, and our uniqueness. We strive to create a world where women are not limited by societal expectations, but empowered to live authentically, pursue their passions, and contribute to a more just and equitable society.

So, as I step into this roller coaster ride of adulthood, I am determined to navigate it with a feminist lens, breaking free from the constraints imposed on me. Together, let's redefine what it means to be an adult, crafting our narratives, and opening doors for future generations of women to live in a world where their choices are respected and celebrated."