Chapter 1: The Struggle for Balance

The societal expectations placed on women often compel them to choose between their family and career, typically favoring domestic responsibilities. This raises the question: why do we see a rise in domestic violence against women by controlling partners?

When a woman lacks a stable job or is underpaid, she becomes reliant on her partner, which can exacerbate any sadistic tendencies he may have. This dynamic feeds into a cycle of dependency that can be hard to break.

Consider the persistent wage gap despite equal qualifications. Women frequently receive lower pay for the same roles and are less likely to be hired. The reality is that women often juggle their professional responsibilities with family obligations. They rush home, eager to avoid late hours or bringing work back, all while mentally planning dinner or remembering their child's needs.

Why is there this disparity in how men and women approach work? It’s not because women are lazy or irresponsible, but rather due to their different levels of engagement in family life. With only 24 hours in a day, if a woman prioritizes her family, it naturally consumes a significant amount of her time and energy. Statistics reveal that in developed nations, women spend an average of 2.5 more hours per week on household chores than men. This pattern is even more pronounced in developing countries, where women's rights are still severely restricted.

The pressure on women to choose family over career can lead to feelings of resentment. Society often shames women for wanting to pursue both roles, insisting that motherhood should take precedence over professional ambitions. Initially, women may feel fulfilled in their familial roles, but as the routine of cooking, cleaning, and caregiving sets in, those feelings can turn into dissatisfaction. They may begin to view their children and partners as burdens rather than sources of joy.

It is crucial for women to carve out time for personal development outside of family duties. Engaging in work and creative pursuits can enhance their well-being and, ultimately, their ability to nurture their children. The early years of a child's life are demanding, but as they grow, mothers can take short breaks to focus on their own interests and passions.

However, when women do return to work, they often face additional challenges. Their contributions at home are frequently undervalued, with partners assuming they should take time off for family needs. At work, they may encounter skepticism from colleagues, further compounding feelings of inadequacy. This constant pressure creates a cycle of guilt and stress.

If you find yourself in a similar situation, it is essential to prioritize your own needs and desires rather than succumbing to external pressures. Confront the guilt that arises when choosing to pursue a career and establish firm boundaries in your life. Defending these boundaries may require embracing feelings of anger and aggression, which are vital for asserting your needs. If you believe you lack these emotions, it may be time to explore and acknowledge them.

The first video, "Lady Gaga - Free Woman (Audio)" explores themes of empowerment and self-identity, perfectly complementing the discussion of women's liberation.

Chapter 2: Embracing Self-Identity

The second video, "Lady Gaga - Free Woman (Music Video)" visually reinforces the message of breaking free from societal constraints, celebrating individuality and strength.