Disclaimer: This does not apply to all but to most women and could be triggering for those practising patriarchal norms.
So, here we go!
She is a mother, a daughter, a sister, a wife! That’s mostly how she goes by – the relationship shared with her family makes up her identity. And while most of the female populace may not have a problem with this – primarily because of the notion of affection attached to it – others (and a very few of them) -- would see through the issue from the lens of patriarchal shackles.
These familial equations are more than just ordinary terms that confine women to a said role and often subject them to stereotypes, thereby hindering their progress on many occasions.
Take the example of a mother. In most cases, especially in the subcontinent, we are located in, she is viewed solely as a caregiver.
While there is nothing wrong with the role, compartmentalizing or reducing her to someone with no other pursuits in life could be detrimental. What's worse? If she tries to get out of the predefined box – say by getting a job – she would be burdened with the expectation to excel at both.
This takes a toll on her mental and physical health, often leading her to lose focus. The unfortunate outcome is she lets go of her career for her motherly duties. The same applies to daughters, who are supposed to juggle multiple roles.
She is expected to excel in her studies, envisioned as a breadwinner, and hoped to become a perfect wife (when she comes of age) -- one does not sacrifice her personal relationships for the sake of professional ones.
"And this is how it works" -- while most of us would console ourselves with these words, we all know how pressing these matters can be! As hinted earlier with a dramatic flair, not all women have to experience this. Some from the sisterhood are blessed with the right support and understanding.
But for those, who are still stuck in the rut, I want to ask you this million-dollar question: Are we still fine with no individual identity in the twenty-first century? Truth be told, we would be promoting double standards (sort of), if we said "no" here, especially when we are head over heels with women's empowerment.
Remember, we are thinkers, doers, dreamers, and creators. And it would be such a shame if the world fails to know our aspirations, experiences, passions, and talents. Oh, what a joy it must be to feel like we matter.
To wrap things up, we must discover who we are in this lifetime and create an identity not for the sake of fame, money, or other materialistic pursuits but for the sake of our own selves -- at best for inspiring fellow women.