Overall, society is becoming more and more inclusive and open-minded every decade. However, you may have noticed that some aspects of life have remained far more taboo than they should be. Here are 18 things society has demonized that should be considered normal.
Talking About Mental Health
The discussion of mental health has a firm spot at the top of our list. Everybody struggles with mental health issues at some point in their lives, yet for some, it remains a taboo topic that’s all too difficult to open up about. This is especially true for men, who are sometimes seen as less masculine when they express their emotions.
Having a Good Work/Life Balance
Our society loves to uphold hard workers as shining examples of what we should all strive to be. However, it also has an unfair habit of demonizing those of us who prioritize relaxation. Self-care and relaxation play an essential role in our mental health and well-being, so we believe those who take care of themselves deserve just as much praise.
Practicing Self-Care
Speaking of self-care, this is another practice that some people have a harmful tendency to undermine. Some mistakenly see self-care as a form of indulgence or selfishness. But on the contrary, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, self-care is essential both for maintaining our own well-being and for giving us the energy we need to do our best for others.
Men as Primary Caregivers
For all too long, women have been pigeonholed into being housewives and caregivers, while men are expected to be the breadwinners. In recent years, more and more men have shifted to becoming primary caregivers for their children, which is beginning to break this harmful stereotype.
Making Mistakes
Everybody makes mistakes. Yet in many cases, society continues to see mistakes as a sign of failure or weakness. It’s essential to accept and reflect on mistakes in order to learn, grow, and preserve your own sense of self-worth.
Choosing Not to Have Children
Despite our ever-increasing global population, many people in our society continue to act as though having children is the only option for couples. However, there are many good reasons to refrain from having kids, and anyone choosing to do so should have their wishes respected.
Sobriety or Moderate Drinking
Many cultures around the world see excessive drinking or alcohol-fueled nights out as the norm. Because of this, those who choose to avoid alcohol are sometimes mocked or pressured into drinking. It’s about time we started respecting sobriety and the health benefits it can provide.
Being Quiet/Private in the Workplace
Our society often feels like it’s set up exclusively for extroverts and social butterflies. In socially active workplace environments, it can be very challenging for introverts to maintain their sense of peace and privacy without receiving strange looks from others.
Not Being Busy All the Time
Our fast-paced world has a real issue with glorifying business and condemning relaxation. According to Reid Health, being in a constant state of busyness without finding adequate time for relaxation can heighten one’s stress levels and lead to health issues in the long run.
Letting Your Yard Go Wild
Many people see natural, grown-out yards as unkempt and sloppy. However, choosing a natural ecosystem over a trimmed lawn provides a multitude of benefits for wildlife, promoting biodiversity and helping keep our world in a healthier state. The Royal Horticultural Society also notes that wildlife gardening can improve your sense of mental well-being.
Advocating for Workers’ Rights
Some people view those who go on strikes or participate in public protests as lazy, ungrateful, or a public nuisance. However, many workers are facing unfair work conditions and demands from their employers. As such, we believe that advocating for workers’ rights should be a practice considered worthy of respect.
Embracing Minimalism
Unfortunately, many people still see minimalistic design choices as boring or cheap. However, that’s beginning to change as more people reject the societal pressure to constantly consume and embrace the psychological and environmental benefits of minimalism.
Speaking Honestly About the Deceased
We’ve all heard people say that we shouldn’t speak ill of the dead, but is that always true? It’s important to remember that those who have passed away were humans and made mistakes just like everyone else, and sometimes victims need to say their piece about the abuse they’ve suffered from deceased individuals.
Holding Moderate Views
Political polarization is a real issue, and that’s especially true within America. We think more people should embrace holding moderate perspectives rather than feeling pressured to pick a side. Nuanced opinions play an important role in creating valuable discussions and building bridges between opposing groups.
Outgrowing Friends
It’s rare for people to have the same friend group forever. Yet many of us still feel an unhealthy amount of guilt for leaving old friendships behind. It’s about time we started recognizing that friendship changes are a natural part of life.
Off-the-Grid Living
Some people see those who choose to live off the grid as strange, reclusive, or outcasts. However, we appreciate the self-sufficiency and environmental benefits that off-the-grid life can offer. The world would likely be a better place if we removed the legal and societal obstacles in the way of self-sufficient lifestyles.
Feminine Fashion for Men
While many brave individuals are beginning to break the stereotypes associated with gender roles and identity, too many people continue to scoff at those who break the mold. We think it’s high time that feminine fashion for men was embraced rather than ridiculed by society.
Women’s Body Hair
Another harmful gender stereotype is the expectation that women must shave their arms, legs, or bikini area in order to be considered beautiful or even “normal.” Body hair is completely natural, normal, and healthy and should be viewed as such by society.
READ MORE
Have you ever wondered what men really think or do? Then look no further. A recent internet survey asked, “What are some ‘guy secrets’ girls don’t know about?” Here are the top 16 answers:
16 THINGS MEN KNOW (BUT WILL NEVER REVEAL TO THE LADIES)
18 BABY BOOMER SLANG PHRASES THAT MAKE MILLENNIALS SCRATCH THEIR HEADS
While it’s easy for younger generations to feel like they’re steeped in slang, Boomers know that some of the best phrases have been passed down for years. Think you’re hip to all of them? Read on for 18 popular phrases of Baby Boomer slang.
18 BABY BOOMER SLANG PHRASES THAT MAKE MILLENNIALS SCRATCH THEIR HEADS
20 THINGS OLD PEOPLE LOVE THAT THE REST OF US DON’T UNDERSTAND
Different generations enjoy different things, but have you ever seen something an old person loves and thought to yourself, why? A recent internet survey asked, “What is something that old people love that you don’t understand?” Here are the top 20 answers.
20 THINGS OLD PEOPLE LOVE THAT THE REST OF US DON’T UNDERSTAND
20 THINGS WE DID WHEN WE WERE YOUNG THAT WE REGRET NOW
It’s easy to say hindsight is 20/20, but what advice would you really give your younger self? Here are 20 things that most people did when they were young that they regret today.
20 THINGS WE DID WHEN WE WERE YOUNG THAT WE REGRET NOW
THINK 60’S OLD? THESE 17 AWESOME FACTS WILL CHANGE YOUR MIND
When it comes to aging, there’s no need to fear the big 6-0! In fact, it’s a cause for celebration! In this post I highlight the 17 things that make being 60 absolutely amazing — from newfound wisdom to retirement adventures. Let’s embrace our 60s together!
THINK 60’S OLD? THESE 17 AWESOME FACTS WILL CHANGE YOUR MIND