Feeling Safe While Running Alone at Night: My Story of Dressing as a Man
#wanted #feel #safe #running #night #started #dressing #man
As I reflect on my life, I am reminded of the small, yet significant, decisions I’ve made that have brought me where I am today. One of those decisions, in particular, has had a profound impact on my sense of safety and self-expression. It’s a choice that I’ve heard some people raise an eyebrow at, but I can confidently say that it has been a game-changer: I started dressing as a man.
Growing up, I was always fascinated by the idea of being able to run freely, without the constraints of societal expectations. As a woman, I was taught to be mindful of my surroundings, to be aware of my body language, and to never venture out alone at night. But as I got older, I started to feel suffocated by these limitations. I wanted to feel safe running alone at night, unencumbered by the constant fear of being perceived as a target.
So, I made the conscious decision to start dressing in a way that would give me that sense of freedom. It wasn’t about disguising myself or concealing my identity; it was about shedding the expectation that I, as a woman, was inherently vulnerable. I started dressing in clothes that were traditionally associated with men – button-down shirts, khaki pants, and sneakers. It was a drastic change, but one that allowed me to take control of my own narrative.
At first, it was tough. People would stare, and some even whispered to themselves or to friends. But I persisted, as it became clear that my new attire not only made me feel more confident but also more visible. I started jogging at night, listening to my own music, and simply enjoying the rush of the wind on my face. For the first time in my life, I felt like I could be myself, unapologetically.
Of course, there were challenges. Like the times I got mistaken for a man, or the times I was asked about my ‘game face’ (as one curious onlooker put it). But for the most part, I found that people were fascinated by my story, and many would approach me with a mix of curiosity and respect. I even started to realize that the struggles I had faced were not unique to me but were, in fact, reflective of the global struggle for gender equality.
In many parts of the world, women face incredibly harsh realities, from gender-based violence to systemic oppression. It’s a reality that’s even more pronounced in the context of conflict zones, where women are often forced to adapt and cope with the brutality that surrounds them. It’s these women, in particular, who have inspired me to share my story, to use my platform to raise awareness about the issues plaguing this world.
• Power, Patriarchy, and Perception
In many societies, men are still perceived as the dominant gender, with women being seen as the ‘weaker’ sex. This patriarchal structure has led to the marginalization of women, restricts their opportunities, and perpetuates gender-based violence. It’s this paradigm, which I believe is drilling into people’s heads the idea that women are inherently vulnerable and need to be protected. But what I’ve come to realize is that vulnerability is simply a response to external stimuli; safety is a choice that we all can make.
• The 5 AM Club: How Dressing Like a Man Changed My Life
I used to wake up at 5:30 AM, hazy-eyed, and dreading the thought of another day of limited freedom. But the moment I started dressing like a man, everything shifted. I started waking up at 5 AM, with a sense of purpose, ready to tackle the world. The 5 AM club, as I call it, has given me a new lease on life, allowing me to reclaim my identity and challenge the gender norms that have held me back for so long. By dressing like a man, I’ve become who I’ve always wanted to be: strong, resilient, and unapologetic.
• Conclusion: Empowerment Through Self-Expression
In conclusion, my journey of dressing as a man has been a transformative experience, one that’s challenged my perceptions of gender, power, and vulnerability. By embracing my new identity, I’ve discovered a sense of freedom that I never thought possible as a woman. As I look back on my life, I am reminded that clothing is not just something you wear; it’s a reflection of who you want to be. So, I encourage you to join me in this journey, to rediscover what it means to be you, unapologetically.
Remember, revolutionizing gender norms starts with self-expression, with the confidence to challenge the gender binary and to create a new narrative that celebrates diversity. Form your own 5 AM club, and let the world know that you’re not afraid to be different.
