In India, marriage and child-bearing are prioritised over any other life event, especially when it comes to women. While there’s no doubt that times are slowly changing, many men expect to be the primary bread earners in the relationship, while women are supposed to take care of the household and children, making sacrifices to keep the family together.
Image credit: R.Balki Films
More often than not, if you hear a woman say that her in-laws are ‘chilled out’, it probably means they ‘allow’ her to work or to wear Western clothing at home. Now before you come at us, we acknowledge all those families that are genuinely progressive and treat their daughter-in-laws as their very own. Having said that, there’s still a very long way to go before this becomes the norm.
Image credit: R.Balki Films
While we can give the elder generation some leeway because they are the products of years of conditioning, when it comes to younger guys who are about to put a ring on it, there’s little to no excuse. Here are some things you should keep in mind before you choose a working woman to be your life partner:
Image credit: R.Balki Films
1. Don’t Expect Us To Quit Our Jobs To Look After The Household
It’s not solely a woman’s responsibility to look after your home and family, so sharing the load is a great idea! Expecting your girl to stop working after marriage is unfair because it’s telling her that your career and ambition are more important than hers. Women are great at multitasking and many can successfully handle both family duties and careers, it’s something you can learn from her. Let her decide her priorities for herself.
Image credit: Eros International
2. We’re Independent And Need A Partner Who Isn’t Threatened By That
Some male egos are more fragile than others. If you happen to be that kinda guy, we suggest you tread carefully if you’re involved with a strong, independent woman. If she’s doing well for herself, don’t interrupt her hustle with your insecurities. Support her and push her to reach her full potential. We’re sure she’ll do the same!
3. We Can Be Both Strong And Sensitive
There’s a misconception that strong, independent women lack empathy and sensitivity. Well, let us tell you that can’t be further from the truth. We appreciate and enjoy love, attention and TLC as much as anyone else.
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4. Strong Women Are Less Emotionally Dependent
A strong woman wants you, but won’t necessarily need you. A woman who can get herself through life doesn’t need the affirmation of a man to feel good. She knows exactly who she is and what she brings to the table. While she might want emotional support, she’s not dependent on it.
5. We’re Not Afraid To Speak Our Minds, Even If It Offends You
Don’t confuse frankness with rudeness. Strong women stand their ground and won’t be bullied or talked into something they don’t agree with. Be prepared to have healthy discussions that may sometimes involve a difference of opinion. She’s not a ‘yes woman’ or a pushover.
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6. Our Self Respect Is Non Negotiable
If she loves you, she might go all out to prove it to you, but anything that threatens her self-respect will not be tolerated. That’s the one thing she won’t compromise on, and she won’t think twice before moving on should you act disrespectfully.
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7. There’s A Limit To The Compromises We’ll Make
When it comes to making adjustments and compromises, don’t push the envelope! While she might be willing to cross the seven seas for you, don’t have unrealistic expectations. No, she won’t cut her friends out because you hate them, she won’t stop wearing jeans because your parents don’t like it, and she won’t quit her job because you think she needs to take care of the household.
Lead Image credit: R.Balki Films
