Why We Should Raise Girls Who Aren’t Always Friendly

There are certain adjectives that’s most people want to be described as: attractive, kind, smart, funny, and friendly. Women in particular are conditioned to believe their value comes from likeability. Arguably, the most important quality for being likeable is being friendly. While I think it’s a great quality to cultivate in yourself, we need to stop encouraging women to see it as the most important quality they can possess (tied with attractiveness but that’s a WHOLE other discussion).

Sadly, most girls grow up and face the problem of unwanted attention. In addition, they often lack an arsenal of tools to avoid or manage these situations. It is incredibly scary and anxiety provoking to be put on the spot by a stranger when you are trying to go about your day.

While many women I have talked to say they appear too friendly and approachable, they also are constantly afraid of being describe as anything less than that from their peers. This is why having a variety of personality traits to tap into should be applauded not shunned in women.

Given this, we need to encourage girls from a young age to set their boundaries. They shouldn’t shun their moods and feelings away under a surface of pleasantness.

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Blog by Nicole Asherah. Nicole Asherah is an artist who tries to connect people to intimate moments, feelings, and relationships experienced throughout life through her poetry, paintings, and photography.

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