As we get older, many women reflect on the choices made in their youth and try to make sense of all the regrets and nostalgia they might have. Some may ponder missed opportunities, and unfulfilled aspirations, while others might try to come to terms with the impact of societal expectations on their lives. A lot of women in their 50s opened up about their regrets in a Reddit thread on the r/AskWomen subreddit and there’s a lot to learn for younger women.
Women, in general, tend to look at themselves with very unkind eyes – be it the way their face looks or their body. They constantly try to better themselves according to societal expectations, losing themselves in the process.
Many looked back and realized that they should have explored more sexually.
This thing about women always being on a diet is exhausting!
Getting married at an age which is the norm and not the choice.
Not seeking help when it came to improving mental health.
Innumerable women downright hate their bodies when they look absolutely perfect.
Not living in the moment.
Not realizing your self-worth and letting it be defined by external factors.
Getting stuck in the vicious cycle of debt is probably the worst.
Downplaying your own opinions.
Taking care of everyone else but yourself.
Sidetracking your performance in academics.
Not travelling enough by yourself!
Not taking enough care of yourself and underestimating how smart you are.
You know what? Within these reflections lie immense resilience and wisdom. There’s also this understanding that their journey is what has shaped them into the women they are today. And that speaks volumes. 🙂