Don't blindly conform to 'rules'

In the contemporary era, where we are talking about women empowerment, feminism and gender equality, women still have to fight the stereotypes attached to the gender. Despite reaching the moon, the outlook of society has not changed towards women.

Let's know what women actually want, but end up following this 'book of unreasonable rules':

Don't wear short clothes: This is the most common obligation often put on women. Wearing short clothes gives a negative impression of a girl's character, as said by many people in society. They believe that if a woman is wearing short clothes – she is inviting men around her to take advantage of her body.

Don't abuse/ use cuss words: If you are a girl, people would stare at you with their pupil coming off their eyes if you say any cuss word. Though men in this world can name mothers and sisters in abusive words…but an 'f' word can bring all the disgrace if you utter it.

Don't smoke/drink: Never ever think you can match the standards of patriarchy in this society. Certain things/zones are meant for men only, and if a women dares to enter that zone, she will always be judged. For example, smoking or drinking – it is substance abuse which normally anyone can be addicted to. But if you ask the society, they would gulp the thought and rather question you. Also, when it comes to drinking, have you followed the pattern this world tries to follow – by distinguishing between lady's drinks and drinks for men.

Don't party late: What if you are a strong independent woman? You can't stay late outside. Remember, always reach home before it is dark.

Don't travel alone: This one is my favourites on the list. When my Instagram was full of all the guys posting pictures of their solo trips – 'discovering themselves', My family on the other hand believed that going on a solo trip isn't safe for a girl. So, ladies, no trips for us?

Don't find a job with odd timings: You might have often heard people saying that for girls it is best to have either a teaching job or a government job – because of its fixed timings. It is usually believed that girls working in the corporate sector or odd timings can have trouble managing work and home after they are married. Do you want to continue your job and marry a teacher rather?

Besides following the above mentioned list of rules, women are usually expected to work every single day to meet the 'standards' set by the society.

But someone rightly said that 'Rules are meant to be broken, and especially so when they are illogical and insensible. So, cross the boundaries, set your own limits, be who you are and define your own identity.

This Women's Day, let's question the society that why are women always asked to adjust and compromise? Why should only women be careful in what they say or do? And, most importantly, why should women follow the list of do's and don'ts.

If at all somebody needs these rules, it's the men of our society. Don't stare at girls wearing short clothes, Don't make a girl uncomfortable, Don't judge a girl if she is smoking, Don't put unnecessary restrictions. It's time to change the rule book!