It was a Saturday afternoon, and I was having a crap massage.
And its always for one specific reason: Im trying too hard to be likable.
The experience that I have paid for.
Edward Berthelot
And it doesn’t end with massages.
I’ve only ever felt safe if I feel I am behaving in a likable manner.
Its not just us regular women who often fall victim to the endlessand energy-zappingneed to be liked.
Men are professional and driven; women are cold.
Men who disagree are standing their ground, while women are just being difficult.
Half of a group of business school students read the first, and the other half the second.
Until I became a mom.
It didnt happen immediately.
But over the first months, something changed.
I dont want to romanticize the process, because it hasnt been a seamless one.
Im more present with my daughter, my husband, my friends, and family.
I feel freer, lighter, and happier.
Do I prefer to be liked?
Of course, its part of a natural survival instinct for most of us.
Do I know its okay if Im not?
Yes, yes I do.
So exhale with me, straighten up, and instead ask yourself: What doIlike?
This post was originally published inGlamourUK.
