When it comes to changing women’s behaviors in various situations—like how we ask for a raise or the way we walk—it’s clear that simply adjusting our actions won’t solve the real issue. The problem lies in sexism itself, not our choices.
But let’s talk about grooming—it’s a different story. Choosing to put down that curling iron or skipping the expensive surf spray isn’t the same as changing how we present ourselves in the workplace. Think about it: the time spent on skincare routines or the cash dropped on that fancy facial brush could be redirected toward something more fulfilling. If you ditch those painful hair removal treatments, you’ll definitely see a boost in both time and funds. My main point? What if women channeled less energy into grooming and more into actually living?
Sure, it’s true that men may waste their time and money on hobbies like sports or cars and still climb the corporate ladder, and yes, that’s a result of sexism. However, grooming isn’t just a frivolous hobby; it’s often a necessity imposed by societal expectations for women to maintain a certain image. The standards for what’s considered “appropriate for work” are drastically different for men and women, often leading to more expensive and time-consuming routines for women.
My friend, Jamie, claims my article falls into the trap of suggesting that women should simply rebel in a way that effectively changes the narrative. But let’s be real—rebellion is exactly what’s needed here. The history of feminism is filled with examples of women pushing back against these outdated norms, from the suffragettes in bloomers to flappers like Irene Castle with their iconic bobs, or even Hillary Clinton rocking her pantsuits. “Rebelling correctly” is truly what leads to meaningful cultural shifts.
And yes, to Jamie’s point, not every woman is caught in an exhausting grooming routine. Plenty have figured out their go-to looks. Sure, many enjoy a little primping—hey, I’m guilty of it too! And let’s not forget that men also invest time in their appearances; marketers will always tap into vanity and insecurity, regardless of gender.
We’re not saying we should all abandon grooming entirely—let’s not head out looking like Animal from the Muppets! But we have to recognize the significant divide between “masculine” and “feminine” grooming expectations, which often consumes a lot of our time and money. It’s essential to understand when our desire to beautify ourselves crosses into a cultural pattern that favors one group over another.
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In summary, while grooming is a significant part of our culture, it’s crucial for women to balance it with their lives, recognizing when it’s more of a burden than a choice. Let’s keep challenging these outdated expectations!