Navigating My Feminine Era: Life Beyond the Tomboy Label

My journey from embracing a tomboy identity to finding empowerment in femininity, exploring self-acceptance, growth, and the importance of genuine connections.

I hate to admit that there was a time when little Vaish went around the block trying to prove herself to everyone else. Prove that she can do anything and she doesn’t need anyone’s help, among other things.

The main focus was for her to come across as “one of the boys”, “the cool girl”, “the chill girl”, or “my dad’s proud of me girl”. What it took was a whole lot of unrealistic independence and a substantial amount of pick-me energy. Yes, I was a pick-me, guilty as charged.

I was heavy on the people-pleasing and low on self-care. I was strict with my punctuality because I didn't like anyone having to wait on me, but that meant not taking the time I needed. I shamelessly nodded in agreement to the stupid ideas of the boys because it was cooler to not be like ‘the other girls’.

Mind you, this was also during some of the most confusing periods of my life. I was constantly hit with questions mentally mainly about my sexuality and what I wanted to do with my life.