There’s a famous quote from Tina Fey that says how Vixens get stuff done. When you look at it that way, it surely can’t be all bad!
On such occasions where women attempt to display their best selves, they are often faced with offensive, derogatory remarks such as being called “aggressive,” “bossy,” and “pushy.” Many senior women say that they are often named “ball buster” and “ice queen.”
Women everywhere need to battle these stereotypes that indicate that being the strong, independent woman we have every right to be, is wrong. So, how do we battle these stereotypes and crack the spell they’re casting on us?
Reclaim the labels:
- Being worried about being labeled bossy or aggressive is not going to serve you any well. When you’re scared of being called that way, you may lose some of the wonderful attributes that legitimately belong to you.
- So rise above it and don’t fear what other names might pin on you. No need to “Ban Bossy.” Just don’t give power to such labels.
Don’t give them authority:
- Your first impulse may be to strike back when called a name, so resist the first response. You offer control to your accuser when you respond with rage, frustration, or resentment, or when you mope or go quiet. You’re telling them that they got you. Reacting with rage gives control over you to someone as someone else influences your acts.
Be confidentially assertive:
- Every case is different, but in general, you can counter these stereotypes by affirming your right to express your ideas with confidence. Before you say it, think through what you’ll say. Move straight to the point and be assertive when confronted with trust.
- Combating stereotypes requires courage. Yet we need to practice that courage if we want to improve how others see us – and, in a way, the way we see ourselves
Educate the next generation:
- It’s a massive chance for parents to modify stereotypes. This can be achieved by bringing up their daughters to be firmly assertive; empowering them to think for themselves, speak with honesty and integrity, and realize their worth. They should not “shush” them as they talk in a loud voice.
- Getting their sons taught to also believe that women should be strong and confident and that men should show their own soft side too. Raise kids who bury those older stereotypes.
These four tactics can help you battle prejudices and maintain your own. And the good news is that perceptions are shifting over time, and will continue to shift. If we fail to play to them, such assumptions will vanish.
Reference: https://www.fastcompany.com/3041942/the-end-of-bitchy-addressing-stereotypes-of-women-at-work
