From hurriedly sweeping intricate brush strokes and beauty blender dabs all over one's face, to rushing to work, women all over the world climb the economic ladder every day. Since the mid-1800's women began to depend on their work ethics instead of their physical appearance to succeed in modern societies. Today, women deal with the challenges of balancing what they value the most about themselves, as societies subject them to unfair standards.
Societies applying gender stereotypes feed into a woman's perspective of a “challenging” or a male dominated field being more than they can handle. This stereotype makes one's self-esteem affect how well they perform within their career, how they perceive themselves as individuals, and it determines if they fall into their "prime." The influence of those around them, such as family, friends, or colleagues, that can possibly harm their personal image too.
Liberty High School math teacher, Laura Weise said that, “I absolutely think societal pressures and family pressures harm young women, probably more than any other subgroup of men or women. I definitely remember feeling like I had to look a certain way to fit in, especially in high school. My mom would always tell me I needed to lose weight and would be more interested in me and give me more validation when I was dieting, exercising, losing weight, etc.”
Furthermore, Weise emphasizes the pressure to be perfect and that attempting perfection has harmful effects not only on her but possibly on most women, as she feels as though her happiness was amplified when she reached her 30s. Weise’s main focuses now are being a great teacher, an excellent mother, and a devoted friend.
Weise affirms that, “I think there are different versions of “prime”. I think there's a physical prime, a socioemotional prime, a career prime...”
Overall, women are often bombarded with the responsibility of handling their work life, their maternal care, and maintaining their physical beauty. This places a label on a woman’s worth and it emphasizes that beauty is something that will end or diminish a woman’s value. However, a “prime” is classified as being the best version of yourself, successful, and in an incredible place in life, but it’s clear that women are placed at a much higher standard than others.
Women are less likely to take chances or risks within their careers, and they are less likely to pursue fields dominated by their male counterparts.
According to unwomen.org, 30% of scientific researchers worldwide are women, 35% of students within STEM fields are women.
Women should be encouraged to participate in STEM fields and other workplaces without being ostracized for not being in their “prime.”
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