Since the suffragettes secured women's right to vote, women’s rights have been on the rise. Women have successfully gained the ability to live independently, manage their own finances and secure the same jobs as men. However, women still force themselves to be tied down to men who are, quite frankly, the worst. This is why we believe you should dump your boyfriend.
If you read that and felt sad or angry at the two of us for even writing this column, then maybe (just maybe) you’re dating a good guy, and this isn’t for you. However, if you read this and you feel a deep-rooted fire that you have suppressed ignite in your soul, you should probably break up with your boyfriend.
Alaina’s Advice:
Throughout my journeys in life and love, I have learned that it’s incredibly easy to fall in love with someone, but it’s also extremely hard to stay there, incandescently in love, forever. The truth of it is, it’s normal to want independence and space to be your own person. Even if your boyfriend wants that for you too, there is nothing like being entirely on your own.
The stereotype of the lonely cat lady is that she’s old and tired. Studies have shown that women are happier single than men. A study conducted at the University of Toronto found that when women can focus on their own happiness, they thrive, whereas men are more likely to worry about the social expectations of being with a woman.
In October, Vogue released an article debating whether or not having a boyfriend was becoming embarrassing. In the article, Chanté Joseph said, “there was an overwhelming sense, from single and partnered women alike, that regardless of the relationship, being with a man was an almost guilty thing to do.” Joseph argued that even after being with a man long-term, there is always the fear that they will embarrass you.
Although being in a relationship can be amazing, growing up is the perfect time for self-discovery. It’s impossible to be in a healthy relationship without knowing that you can be on your own. Giving yourself time to grow is essential before committing to someone.
You don’t need to be in an unhealthy relationship to want space and independence. If you want to be single, then be single. You don’t owe an explanation to anyone for what you want to do. If you have been waiting for a sign to end things, then consider this your formal invitation. Break up with your boyfriend.
Amelia’s Advice:
There have been many times in my life that I have been deemed a man-hater, but I wouldn’t exactly agree; I am simply a skeptic. Throughout history and modern times, men have given a multitude of reasons to be cynical. In the era of American commentator Ben Shapiro and President Donald Trump’s unfortunate second term, there has been a surge in misogyny that spiked during and after the presidential election. This can be extremely dangerous, especially for women in relationships with men.
From my own observational perspective, I’ve seen many of my friends be torn down and exploited by men who claim to love them. I’ve witnessed women isolate themselves from the people who love them to appease a man who doesn’t deserve their time or pain.
If your family and friends don’t like your boyfriend, there’s probably a reason. If you find yourself lying to your loved ones about your relationship, there’s probably a reason. Although the words might seem harsh, you should leave him.
According to the organization Women Helping Women, focused on uplifting survivors and preventing gender-based violence, 1 in 3 college women say they have been in an abusive dating relationship, and 1 in 3 girls in the United States have experienced physical, emotional or verbal abuse from a partner.
It’s not uncommon for women dealing with abuse at the hands of their partner to feel stuck in the relationship, but there is a way out. There are people who will help you. Ohio University has a survivor advocacy program. The national abuse hotline has resources to help identify abuse and find local providers.
Time and again, women have been held back by men. Putting their lives on the back burner to allow their partner’s career to flourish, while they seemingly fade into the background, their life becoming an extension of their partner. If your partner dismisses or belittles your career aspirations or life goals, it’s time to split. Putting your life on hold for your partner will only compromise your future. You can find another boyfriend, but you can’t find another life.
You will never be an extension of a man, and if he treats you as such, it’s time to go.
We regret to inform you:
Break up with your boyfriend. If not for you, then for feminism.
Alaina Sayre is a sophomore studying journalism at Ohio University, and Amelia Henson is a sophomore studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the opinions expressed in this column do not represent those of The Post. Want to talk to Amelia and Alaina about their column? Email Alaina at as015023@ohio.edu and Amelia at ah300723@ohio.edu.
