Getting Real About Women: Who We Really Are

We women wear many hats, juggle various roles, and often carry the weight of the world on our shoulders. Yet, beneath all that, who are we really?

Recognising our true essence and understanding who we truly are is crucial to achieving balance in our lives and, more importantly, safeguarding our emotional well-being. This exploration is essential to bridge the gap between our internal selves and the external pressures we face and guide us toward a more genuine and fulfilling life.

So, what is it that truly defines a woman—beyond the labels, the expectations, and the daily demands? What makes her tick? What makes her unique? And what identity should she embrace to define her place in this so-called man’s world?

At her core, a woman is a force of nature—a blend of unyielding strength and boundless empathy. She is a mother, a daughter, a friend, a professional, a caregiver, a leader, an innovator, and so much more—contributing significantly to the framework of society. She is an endless well of emotions—she feels deeply, loves fiercely, and navigates the storms of life with immense grace and tenacity. But to truly understand the essence of a woman, we must acknowledge that she carries the weight of the world not because she has to but because she chooses to, out of love, responsibility, and an unwavering commitment to those she holds dear. Beneath the surface, where society often sees only the roles she plays, lies a resilient spirit that cares for her loved ones with an intensity that can move mountains.
Yet, despite this diverse array of roles and identities, there remains a disconnect between her true self and societal perceptions.

Society has often boxed women into narrow definitions. These perceptions, although evolving, have historically been shaped by stereotypes—women as nurturers, as passive supporters, as the ‘weaker’ gender. Although these outdated perceptions are gradually giving way to a broader understanding, remnants of these views still influence how women perceive themselves, impacting their emotional well-being. This societal lens can lead to immense pressure on women to conform to specific roles or ideals. The expectations to be perfect—whether as mothers, professionals, or partners—can be overwhelming. This ongoing conflict between external expectations and a woman’s authentic self can lead to stress, anxiety, and a sense of inadequacy. Navigating these pressures while striving to align with one’s true essence is crucial for maintaining mental and emotional health.

However, this journey toward authenticity is not without its challenges. Women are often taught from a young age to prioritise others’ needs over their own, leading to a deep-rooted habit of self-sacrifice. While caring for others is a valuable trait, it can become detrimental when it results in neglecting one’s own needs. To truly nurture oneself, women need to prioritise their mental well-being.

The journey to mental well-being begins with self-awareness—recognising and appreciating who one is beyond labels and roles. It starts with redefining womanhood on one’s own terms and resisting the urge to fit into pre-existing moulds. It is the courage to stand tall amidst challenges and the wisdom to nurture not just others but also oneself.

Also Read: Strategies To Manage Multiple Roles That Women Play

Unfortunately, self-awareness or self-care is often misunderstood or undervalued, seen as a luxury rather than a necessity. What needs to be understood is that embracing self-care helps us appreciate our worth and fortify the core of who we are, ensuring that we remain grounded, empowered, and truly connected with our authentic selves. It involves setting boundaries and prioritising self-care, allowing us to find balance and prioritise our mental health without the burden of guilt for putting oneself first. Self-care is not about spa days or pampering; it’s about taking the time to listen to our inner voice, understand our needs, and address them without guilt.

If we neglect our needs, the consequences can extend far beyond our well-being. When we are constantly running on empty, it’s easy to become irritable, overwhelmed, and disconnected. This can strain our relationships and diminish the love and care we can offer those around us. Self-care isn’t just about maintaining our health—it’s about preserving our ability to love and support the people we care about. By taking the time to nurture ourselves, we ensure that we remain emotionally present and genuinely engaged with others.

Self-care means understanding that self-worth is not tied to external validation but is an inherent quality every woman possesses. It’s also about advocating for oneself and others, speaking up against stereotypes, and fostering a community where women are free to be their true selves.

At the heart of it, we women are complex, beautiful beings with an incredible capacity for resilience and love. Yet, we are also human, with our own set of challenges, fears, and dreams. Embracing ourselves as we are and recognising the importance of self-care is the first step towards self-love. And self-love is the first step to being true to who we are and understanding that who we are is more than enough. We don’t have to be everything to everyone—we just have to be ourselves.

So, here’s to getting real, embracing our true selves, and caring for our emotional well-being—because we deserve it.