Your first question going into this may be, "Why are you making this a gender thing?!"
Well, because, it's a problem.
No, I'm not saying women are mistreated, and no, I'm not saying we don't have equal rights.
There are just certain things women should be allowed to talk about that they shouldn't be ashamed of; things they shouldn't have to go through, and things they shouldn't have to apologize for simply because it "bothers" or "irritates" someone else.
Here are 11 things women need to stop apologizing for.
1. Saying "no."
For real? Is this actually one of the things we need to discuss? No woman should ever have to apologize for saying "no" under any situation or circumstance. If she doesn't want do it, she does not have to.
Put your big boy pants on and get over it.
2. Being over-emotional because of her period.
Duh. Leave home girl alone. She's tired, probably hungry, sad because she spilled some milk, and now she's angry because her shoes aren't being tied the right way. It's called hormones.
Deal with it.
3. Talking about her period.
It seems like every time a girl discusses her menstrual cycle, everyone goes insane, and when asked why, most reply with "it's gross."
Um... What?
No, it's not gross. It's natural. It's just as natural as sneezing or coughing. A woman should be allowed to discuss what's going on with her body without being shamed for it.
Periods are a normal thing, and it's time we started acting like it.
4. Having RBF.
Ah, yes. The dreadful resting bitch face... God forbid you stop smiling for two seconds because then everyone thinks you're "rude" or "antisocial." Uh, no, I'm not. It's literally my face.
5. Not wanting to have kids.
Okay, this is a biggie. Do not tell me I'm a bad person for not wanting kids. Oh, and don't tell me that I'll change my mind. That's annoying, and this is my life, so let me live it the way I want to, Sharon!
6. Speaking their mind.
According to the first amendment, we are allowed to say what we please. Do not criticize us for being open in our opinions or putting you back in your place if you step out of bounds.
7. Cussing.
It's apparently not ladylike to say you don't give a shit, but what a better way to say it? Just because I have a mouth like a sailor doesn't mean I'm not a lady. If you think that swearing is unladylike, well... Bless your heart.
8. Their bodies.
Girl, slay! We do not need to apologize for our bodies. If someone doesn't love us the way we are, they need to hit the road and get stuck in traffic! We are beautiful, strong, alpha females who have the ability to create life.
Our bodies are the last thing we should apologize for.
9. Wearing or not wearing makeup.
You want to wear a full face every day? Yes, queen. Slay my life.
You want to go bare faced every day? Ooh, girl. Look at that natural glow. Beat. It. Up. Whether or not you want to wear makeup is totally up to you, but regardless of your decision, be happy because you're #flawless.
10. Being confident.
You should never have to apologize for feeling yourself. Yeah, arrogance isn't really the way to go, but there isn't anything wrong with a little TLC, especially if it's for yourself.
Be proud of who you are, baby. There's nothing wrong with you, and don't you ever let anyone tell you different. Leave that sparkle of self-confidence everywhere you go.
11. Being intelligent.
Why exactly should we have to apologize for knowing just as much, if not more than you do? If you're really upset someone knows more than you, then you need to check your ego. Being intelligent is nothing to apologize for. Ever.
So, if we shouldn't have to apologize for these things, why do we? Well, nowadays society has a way of raising young women with the false reality of perfection.
Women are supposed to be kind, gentle, loving, maternally based, and quiet when it comes to open discussions about personal opinions. I'm here to tell you that, no, this is no longer the case.
We are not simple creatures to be caged or bossed around.
Now, we speak our minds, are CEOs of major corporations, and know more than anyone ever has. We need to stop apologizing for these things because it's unnecessary. Stay firm in your beliefs and remember, you don't need to be sorry for everything.