Seven things every daughter wants her father to say

Even though the world isn’t an easy place for men because of factors such as patriarchy and toxic masculinity that chronically weigh men down, it is even more difficult for women to find a place for themselves. Fathers play an important role in shaping their daughters’ lives and the women they grow up to be. They teach them resilience, independence and strength but it may not always be conveyed in the best manner. Knowing how to say the right things in the right way is one of the most important things that help strengthen relationships and build better bonds. So here are seven things that every daughter needs to hear from her father.

Also read: Which type of personality does your child belong to?

Everything that the society constructs vis-à-vis gender, affects both the genders in one way or another. It is not uncommon to see girls being pulled down or shamed for simply claiming their strengths. Raising a daughter who understands that no matter what the society says, it is important for them to fully embrace and claim themselves. Not limiting oneself and saying out loud what one loves about themselves is not bragging or anything negative in the least.

Giving compliments when your daughter dresses up is important. However, making her realize that she is beautiful and every little thing that she does for herself enhances how she looks. Being dressed in pyjamas, working all night on a thesis should also be appreciated. Telling her that she is beautiful, irrespective of her outfit or make-up, is one of the most important things that will add to her self-confidence and help her look beyond stereotypical standards of beauty set up by the society.

Also read: Boys need to hear these seven things from their fathers

While anger is mostly associated with negativity, it is demonised when women express it. By the time a girl turns ten, she is taught that expressing anger would not make her look good and isn’t very ‘feminine’. However, it is important for fathers to do away with these stereotypes and normalize the expression of intense emotions like anger which is only human, irrespective of one’s gender.

Telling your daughter to claim her power and be a girl boss can sound like empty advice that isn’t backed by any action. Telling your daughter to be a leader and making her do so are two different things. Asking for help, advice and opinions on important matters will strengthen their sense of self and also add to self-worth. However, ensure that asking for advice is followed by following the advice properly so that she knows that her words actually hold value.

Believing in your daughter is not enough. It is equally important for her to know that you believe in women and support them wholeheartedly. Your opinions about gender equality, equal rights and women’s strength will greatly influence your daughter and instil in her the same beliefs. Make sure that you start conversations about equal pay for women and how it is an anachronistic practise that does not deserve a place in the present day scenario.

Even though a lot of us end up telling each other that looks don’t matter, it is far from the reality. In the real world, especially among teens and young adults, looks play an important role in determining the way an individual is treated. Telling your daughter that she is more than her looks will reaffirm her faith in the often heard phrase and will also encourage a positive self-image.

The request may seem innocuous but most fathers will be surprised to know that the demand, no matter who it is from, can have an unpleasant undertone to it and telling her that she can do as she pleases will promote healthy consent and control over her body.