Travel alone, confess your love: 10 things women must do fearlessly in 2023, via Anoushey Ashraf

From quirky skits to brave reflections, host and RJ Anoushey Ashraf always has so much to offer her fans. But most recently, she took to Instagram to share 10 invaluable pieces of advice for her fellow women. Her list serves as a guiding light for those seeking empowerment, fulfillment, and self-discovery. From financial independence to self-acceptance, taking the initiative in love or engaging in meaningful pursuits, Anoushey encourages women to break free from societal limitations and embrace their unique journeys.

Here’s what she had to say:

Be financially independent

Anoushey highlights the importance of financial independence as a means of empowerment. “We've heard this again and again,” she writes, “but I can't emphasize enough on being financially independent. Not only does it give you freedom of movement, it gives you self confidence in a world that isn't to kind to our gender in general.”

Stand up for yourself

Challenging the narrative of letting things slide, Anoushey encourages women to stand up for themselves. “We've been sold the whole 'be patient, let it go' narrative for way too long but if someone has said or done something to hurt you or your reputation stand up for yourself. You don't need to take emotional abuse from anyone,” asserts Anoushey.

Travel solo (or with friends)

Anoushey emphasizes that women need not wait for a partner to embark on adventures. Traveling solo or with friends opens up a world of opportunities for personal growth. “You do not necessarily need a partner to travel around with. Get your girlfriends and travel to exotic places. Meet new people, have unique experiences and grow. Travel is the best education,” she declares.

Learn how to drive

By all means, take the wheel! Anoushey wants every woman to learn how to drive, simply because it is a survival skill at this point. Moreover, driving instils a sense of control. “Just a skill I think everyone needs to know. In case of emergency or just not being dependent on someone else driving you around all the time. Driving also gives you a sense of control (in an odd sense) it's cool,” she adds.

Confess your love to someone

In an era of evolving gender dynamics, Anoushey reminds women that they have the agency to go after whoever they want instead of waiting around for them. “So, you have been liking someone but waiting for him to make the first move. Wake up, girl, it’s 2023! You can ask a guy too. And it's absolutely okay! Good luck” she offers.

Indulge in a hobby

To maintain a sense of creativity and motivation amidst life's chaos, Anoushey advises women to make time for hobbies. “Making time for reading, art, music, puzzles, spending time with my pets or just playing sports are essential to recharge my batteries and keep me sane in an otherwise chaotic life,” she writes.

Be comfortable in your own skin

Anoushey advocates for self-acceptance and self-love. Regardless of body size, height, or any perceived flaws, Anoushey reminds everyone that embracing one's authentic self is a crucial step towards self-love. “So, what if you're skinny or thin? What if you (think) you're short or too tall? Accepting your authentic self is the biggest step towards knowing and honoring yourself.”

Be 100% okay with being single

Highlighting that being single is a choice rather than a lack of options, Anoushey encourages women to embrace their singlehood and not let their lives be defined solely by their relationship status. Quoting Many Hale, she wrote, “’It is a choice [you make] to refuse to let your life be defined by your relationship status but to live every day Happily and let your ‘ever after’ work itself out. And it will.’”

Give time to a cause you believe in

Anoushey urges women to channel their passion towards a cause they deeply care about. Whether it is politics, religion, the environment, education, or animal rights, taking positive action makes a difference. “Whatever it is that gets you worked up, don't just sit around and complain. Get involved! Start taking positive, forward-thinking action and see what you can do to help the situation. Raise money, do research, volunteer your time, spread the word - it'll give you an incredible sense of purpose, and plus, people need your help,” she maintains.

Work out at least 3 times a week

Recognising the importance of physical and mental well-being, Anoushey stresses the significance of regular exercise: “Not only will staying active and adapting your physical activity improve mental and physical health but it will also cut down on your risk of developing life-threatening illnesses or having a fall that results in injury. It's no secret that our bodies start to decline naturally as we age. That's life, unfortunately – but it needn't be a cue to stop moving. Staying active is beneficial to us all, whatever our age!”

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