TO ALL THE GROWN-UP GIRLS STRIVING DAY AND NIGHT

• Do you think being a woman is harder than being a man?

• Why would you say that?

• That is because women around me, those who have boyfriends or husbands, always have to put in a lot of effort. Not only do they have to look beautiful, and be positive and energetic, but they also have to know how to cook, take care of their family, and care for loved ones. Not to mention, they also have to juggle work responsibilities, meet deadlines, and deal with the pressures of their jobs. I truly think that is very tough. As for the men, they only have to focus on work, social interactions, and even eat something simple when hungry, and some do not even bother cleaning up.

I chuckled at the quite humorous confessions of my colleague while we were discussing work. The 23-year-old girl, who has not started a family or had a boyfriend before, introduced me to an interesting perspective on “youthful inexperience,” marriage, love, and gender differences.

Though her perspective may seem innocent and naive compared to mine, when looking at life as a whole, I know many other women also have the same thoughts. They believe that being a woman is always more challenging and demanding than being a man in countless ways. Are you thinking the same as you read this? Let’s share our viewpoints!

From my perspective, I have never thought that way. I do not come from a privileged background, nor have I been free from difficulties or failures in life. However, I genuinely have not seen a woman as burdensome. To me, being a woman always comes with its unique privileges. Hehe.

You might agree or disagree with me, but from where I stand, I feel that being in this world is a miraculous opportunity. Therefore, whether being in a male or female body, I would still lead a fulfilling life. That is because we all face difficulties and have personal experiences in our lives. “Every tree has its blossom, every home has its scene,” We can not judge others solely by appearances and assume they are either happy or struggling. We can only truly understand our lives the deepest among all.

Let me tell you a story.

I know a group of friends, all females, who lived together. There were six of them, from friends of friends, they knew each other through work and just like predestines, they shared an apartment, living like sisters. All were young women under 30, living together, which naturally brought some initial disagreements. However, when looking beyond those minor issues, I see their efforts and dedication. Even though they did not all work in the same field, the way they witnessed each other’s daily efforts motivated them all to strive and overcome their individual work and life challenges.

They come from various backgrounds such as rural areas or small towns, to live and work in a big city. One similarity between all of them was despite not having any initial advantages or significant relationships in the city, they have achieved things others envy.

They pursued their passions, maintained strong relationships, and are known as a very special group of friends. People were surprised when they knew that six of these girls could live, work, and grow together. That is because a common belief is that women are difficult to get along with due to jealousy and selfishness. Therefore, hearing about these six girls sharing a home and developing themselves together is hard to believe. Nevertheless, they are not concerned with what others think. They only knew that if they found something that could improve their health, they would share it, and anyone who found those products suitable, could continue to use them with others. If they saw others taking care of their skin, staying fit, eating healthily, or doing charity work, they were motivated to do the same, too.

However, these are just external aspects. What about the inside? Did they have no difficulties at work or in life? Or were their lives so successful that they did not experience sadness or complain?

Not at all! I am close with one of those six girls, so I often heard their heartfelt confessions and learned a bit more about them.

They are adorable, beautiful, and financially stable. However, they also experience sadness, difficulties, challenges, and personal struggles. One was scammed of significant savings when starting a business due to her naive excessive trust. One was unknowingly involved in love triangles and only found out when the real girlfriend called and scolded her. One ended up with a partner who treated her terribly and lacked ambition and appreciation of her earnings. One struggled for a long time to achieve their first career milestone. One was taken advantage of at work. Lastly, for one girl, whenever received a call from her mother or brother, it was always only reminders to send money home for her family’s expenses.

All six of them have faced personal hardships that woke them up, causing them to cry and feel exhausted, even skipping meals and neglecting themselves for days. Thus, in the future, they may encounter more unexpected challenges. That is inevitable in life. However, you know what? Through the efforts of these girls, I want to say that you will find happiness and joy in your heart, but before that, have the courage to face challenges and storms!

Life will not be easy just because you are a woman, a delicate flower. Instead, you need to be like a rose with thorns, delegation or strength, timidity or blossoming – you have them all!

To all grown-up women striving day and night, keep working hard, dedicating yourself, and continuously developing. It will eventually be beneficial for you and your future!

Even if today you are:

• Munching on dry bread or instant noodles,
• Enduring the scorching sun or heavy rain to meet clients,
• Facing blame, condescension, or deception,
• Unable to afford quality clothes or cosmetics for yourself,
• Unable to take your parents or family on a vacation,
• Lacking everything! 

Just believe that tomorrow, you will find a good job, at least one good person beside you, or encounter some favorable conditions. It is all because of the efforts you have put in, the tears you have shed, the sleepless nights you have spent working, the insufficient meals, and the times you have “tightened your belt” to support your family until payday.

Also, stop thinking that being a woman is tough, alright?
If you are a man, you will have different responsibilities, different challenges assigned not just by your family, but sometimes by society’s strict norms. Whatever you do, you will face your challenges, and it all depends on your choices and attitudes toward life.

Live like a flower, even when there are storms and difficulties. Be soft but not weak to create your values. Experience life to the fullest, be sincere, and give your best, regardless of the outcome, then you will always feel peace deep inside!

Lastly, live a life that you genuinely desire. No matter if it is joyful or sorrowful, happy or sad, you are the one creating it all. Everything or everyone else is just a catalyst, making your life more interesting and colorful, even if they are just a dull shade of gray.

Much love,
Truly Inspired®