Life is a journey filled with countless unique experiences, mistakes, and realizations, but there are a few things that women (in particular) should know before setting out into the world. Whether related to biology or psychology, some truths are essential for a woman’s mental and physical health. Here are 19 facts about female adulthood that every woman should know!
Strong Doesn’t Mean Unbreakable
Being a strong and independent woman can feel like the only way to live in modern times, but it’s okay to ask for help when you need it (that goes for men, too). Strength comes in many forms, including being strong enough to admit when you need assistance or feel vulnerable. Don’t be afraid to show your emotions when appropriate and accept support when needed.
Others Don’t Define Your Worth
Everyone is worthy of love, respect, and happiness, and, according to mindset and empowerment coach Tracy Litt, women are particularly prone to “not feeling like ‘enough’: good enough, smart enough, tall enough, pretty enough, experienced enough.” Don’t let anyone, including yourself, use your appearance, age, social status, or experience level to define your overall worth.
Your Voice Matters
Don’t be afraid to speak the truth as you see it and stand up for what you believe in. Your voice is powerful, and your opinions hold as much weight as anyone’s, male or female. Work on developing your communication skills and self-confidence so that your needs, ideas, and perspectives aren’t dismissed or drowned out.
Your Body Is Yours
I Respect Myself asserts, “You are the only person who has the right to touch your private body parts. No one else should touch them without your consent.” This is obviously applicable to everyone, but it can be especially important for young women. No one has the right to make you feel sexually vulnerable, obligated, exposed, or uncomfortable.
You Are Beautiful
This one can take some convincing and is generally something that most women learn with age, but it is true for everyone. Our bodies are fantastic and capable machines that come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and appearances. There is no ‘one size fits all’ beauty standard, so don’t try to be something you’re not—embrace what’s beautiful about you and accept what you can’t change.
The Truth About Pregnancy and Childbirth
While sensationalist stories and over-dramatizations aren’t helpful, all young women should be aware of the physical and emotional realities of having babies, whether they plan to have any or not. Movies and other media don’t portray childbirth realistically, so it’s important to speak frankly to older female relatives or friends who’ve been through it.
Comparison Is the Thief of Joy
Social media and societal pressures make it all too easy for women to compare themselves to others, but this is an unhealthy and pointless exercise. Everyone, no matter how ‘blessed’ they seem, has their own struggles to deal with, so don’t compare their achievements and successes to your own—celebrate those you love and focus on your own personal journey.
Friendships Change and Evolve
Your childhood and adolescent friendships may not last a lifetime, but that doesn’t make them worthless. News24 says that some friendships have a natural, inevitable ‘sell by’ date, after which they are no longer feasible or beneficial. Learn to let go of friends who aren’t lifelong ‘keepers’—cherish the memories and move on to new connections.
Setbacks Are Inevitable
Anyone who claims “failure is not an option” obviously never lived in the real world! Making mistakes and failing is a natural part of life that is only unavoidable if you never try. You will experience setbacks and disappointments, but these experiences will often be valuable learning opportunities. Develop resilience, pick yourself up, and always keep trying.
Education Is an Investment
Before the 18th century, most women weren’t educated at all, but thankfully, society has progressed a lot since then. Education opens doors to opportunities and empowers you to reach your full potential and become financially independent. Invest in your education, whether via formal schooling, vocational training, or self-directed learning. Remember—knowledge is power!
Boundaries Are Healthy
It’s okay to say no to friends, family members, or romantic partners who repeatedly cross boundaries. Ensure you’re clear when setting out what behavior you won’t tolerate, and don’t deviate from your convictions. You might lose some people along the way, but you’ll end up with healthy relationships that boost your mental health, not damage it.
Financial Literacy Is Essential
Learn how to manage your money effectively, and never accept that women don’t need to learn this vital life skill (that’s old-school sexism at its worst!). Understanding budgeting, saving, and responsible credit use are all essential lessons for adulting and will help you make responsible decisions and manage your finances effectively.
Self-Care Is Non-Negotiable
No excuses! It doesn’t matter how busy you are; you must take the time to nourish your mind, body, and soul. Prioritize activities like healthy eating, fitness, pampering, meditation, and hobbies that make you feel happy, fulfilled, and rested. Always get enough sleep and seek professional help whenever you feel unwell—physically or mentally.
Your Intuition Is Powerful
While it might not always be spot-on, your gut instinct is a subconscious warning that should not be ignored or downplayed. If a person or situation gives you a ‘bad’ or uncomfortable feeling, don’t dismiss it. That inner voice may be trying to tell you something important. Worthwhile people won’t mind if you hesitate, so don’t ignore those red flags.
Relationships Take Work (Sometimes)
Healthy relationships require effort from both partners, at least some of the time. Psychology Today says that even the most robust partnerships go through challenging times that require open communication and working together, and it’s okay if you struggle now and then. So long as you’re not being abused or constantly struggling, a little work may be all that’s needed.
It’s Okay to Change Your Mind
Your goals and aspirations may evolve over time, so don’t feel like you’re ‘betraying your dreams’ if something that was important to you stops feeling important enough to pursue. Reaching adulthood isn’t the end of personal growth and change, so expect to feel differently about your life as you age. It helps to remain flexible and open to opportunity.
You Won’t Always Look This Way
Our faces and bodies go through a lot of changes as we transition from young adulthood into middle age and then old age. Young women should be aware that wrinkles, gray hairs, stretch marks, and scars are a part of life and nothing to be ashamed of. So long as you’re happy and healthy, don’t despair at your changing body—it’s natural and beautiful in its own way.
Periods Aren’t Identical For Every Woman
Menstruation is a natural part of female biology that women who reach adulthood are already well aware of. It’s essential to remove any social stigma or shame from such a natural process and focus on understanding your cycle and what’s normal for you. Learn what’s within healthy limits, and always ask a doctor if you have concerns.
You Are More Than Your Body
According to Northwestern Medicine, male brains are 10% larger than female brains, but this has zero impact on intelligence. Never let society objectify you or use your physical appearance to make assumptions about your capabilities or intelligence. Looking nice might feel good, but real accomplishments, relationships, and fulfillment come from what’s inside.
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