Independent women have so many silly assumptions made about them. There are all these preconceived notions that are so wrong, they're laughable. I don't know if people are threatened by independent women, intimidated by them, or jealous of them. I don't know if they just don't like anything that challenges their opinions of what a woman should be or what, but if you're a woman and you can happily and successfully take care of yourself, people can get downright nasty. Even when they're not being mean, exactly, plenty of their assumptions are nasty, too. Here are some of the biggest misconceptions about independent women. See if any of them seem familiar to you, and be sure to chime in with your experiences, too!
1. Independent Women Aren't Interested in Having a Relationship – Ever
Ever, ever, ever, no exceptions, if you're independent then some people assume you never want to be with anybody.
2. But It's Also Impossible for You to Be Single and Happy – You're Totally Faking It
There's no way you're actually happy about being single, either – that's impossible!
3. Somehow, Being Independent Means You Have Sex All the Time
That's basically all you ever do, right, like one of those highfalutin modern women?
4. Probably with Tons of Partners, so You're Promiscuous, Too
Not only are you having lots of sex, but you're having lots of sex with random people – and a whole lot of folks actually assume that independent women are always after married men.
5. Or else You're a Frigid Old Spinster
Okay, I don't even understand people at all anymore.
6. And You're Absolutely Destined to Be a Cat Lady
Well, of course – if you're a woman who can stand on her own two feet, obviously no one but your cats will ever love you, and also you're clearly a witch who needs her feline familiars with her at all times.
7. You're Not Really Independent – Somebody's Paying Your Bills
Everybody secretly thinks it's your parents.
8. You Don't Care What Anybody Thinks about Anything
You know, if this is true, good for you because look at the assumptions you have to deal with when you care about what people think.
9. Also, Everybody Knows You Secretly Hate Men
That's why you say you don't need one, right?
10. You Probably Have Daddy Issues, Too
It couldn't possibly be that both your parents taught you that you're strong and capable.
11. If You're Independent, You're Totally a Bitch
No question, no room for discussion.
12. You're Also Oh, so Cold-hearted
Who even knows why anyone would think this?
13. Somebody Broke Your Heart, That's Why You're like This
It's possible, but if so, it's a coincidence – and even if it's not, isn't that a good reason to be independent?
14. You Look down on Everybody else
Seriously, where do people get these ideas?
15. The Odds Are High That You Can't Cook
Right, because you can't be independent and enjoy cooking or cleaning or anything like that. You can only be this one stereotype.
16. You Most Likely Despise Children
There is so much wrong with this assumption.
17. You're a Total Snob
And this one is honestly just sad.
Independent Stalkers, does anyone make any ridiculous assumptions about you? 'Fess up in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do people assume independent women don't need support?
- Because independence is often mistaken for self-sufficiency, but everyone needs support sometimes.
- Is being independent the same as being lonely?
- Not at all; independent women value connection but also cherish their autonomy.
- Do independent women find it hard to trust others?
- Trust varies by individual and isn't linked to independence, though past experiences shape trust.
- Are independent women seen as intimidating?
- Sometimes, but this reaction is usually due to outdated stereotypes rather than reality.
- Do independent women avoid relationships?
- No, they often seek equal partnerships that respect their independence.
- Is independence a barrier to motherhood?
- Not necessarily; many independent women balance motherhood and personal goals successfully.
- Do independent women have fewer friends?
- Friendship is based on quality, not quantity, and independence doesn't reduce social bonds.
- Are independent women less emotional?
- Emotions aren't diminished by independence; it's a misconception that strength means lack of feeling.
- Do independent women avoid asking for help?
- They may be selective but recognize that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
- Is independence a trend or a lasting value for women?
- Independence is a lasting and important value reflecting self-respect and empowerment.