[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"$fRdy4Ph-Pr3_YSRANo4UELfNtlCWM9i03GPoJzUPa93A":3,"$feeGJmHv9pQp6HjsPh5SQZHvQyMqMQ56tcOuJKdqwCiI":37,"$fg9i3Bsc4v-hk7Jc90jQEwlF955S6DcbvfvOE0BpHRgo":129},{"data":4,"meta":33},[5,9,13,17,21,25,29],{"id":6,"name":7,"slug":8},1,"Career & Finance","career-and-finance",{"id":10,"name":11,"slug":12},11,"After Hours","after-hours",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16},3,"Wellness","wellness",{"id":18,"name":19,"slug":20},12,"Style","style",{"id":22,"name":23,"slug":24},4,"Voices","voices",{"id":26,"name":27,"slug":28},2,"Mindset","mindset",{"id":30,"name":31,"slug":32},10,"Nourish","food",{"pagination":34},{"page":6,"pageSize":35,"pageCount":6,"total":36},25,7,{"data":38,"meta":127},[39],{"id":40,"title":41,"createdAt":42,"updatedAt":43,"publishedAt":44,"content":45,"slug":46,"coffees":26,"seo_title":41,"keywords":47,"seo_desc":48,"featuredImage":49,"category":93,"author":97,"img":126},53,"How the Fitness Industry Lies","2021-02-14T22:00:26.751Z","2024-06-21T18:39:33.128Z","2021-02-15T13:25:01.308Z","\u003Ch3>The fitness space is filled with men with six-pack abs and women with small waists and giant glutes.\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>As career-driven professionals, we are inclined to think, \u003Cem>‘I can do that too’\u003C\u002Fem> because we are overachievers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So, we embark on our \u003Cem>fitness journey\u003C\u002Fem>. We lose weight, maybe get a sort of a six-pack for the summer. After that, it all goes away, and we gain back all the weight and more. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch3>Why?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\u003Cp>Because career, family, and social life took priority, and we never got back on track.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch4>When’s the last time you thought you were a superior human being because you woke up at 6 am before work every day to get that gym session in?\u003C\u002Fh4>\n\u003Cp>Then \u003Cstrong>Coronavirus\u003C\u002Fstrong> happened, we all started working from home, and your routine fell out the window.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>This is what I call the \u003Cstrong>‘All or Nothing’\u003C\u002Fstrong> mentality, which leads to the cycle of constantly losing and regaining weight.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What we forget is that people we see on Instagram being ambassadors for the fitness industry are full-time fitness models, athletes, or personal trainers.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What they don’t even tell you is that \u003Cem>they don’t have a six-pack all year round\u003C\u002Fem>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We are not full-time fitness models; we are \u003Cstrong>working professionals\u003C\u002Fstrong>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What makes us thrive is feeling more energised, more productive, and pain-free. Not having a six-pack.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg src=\"https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fhow_the_fit_industry_lies_1_c7078dd678.jpg\" alt=\"how-the-fit-industry-lies-1.jpg\">\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Ch4>The diet industry in the USA alone is worth approximately $71 billion in 2020.\u003C\u002Fh4>\n\u003Cp>This is driven by the awful statistic that roughly 95% of people who start a weight loss diet regain the weight back and often more. In one study, only 1 out of 14 contestants on the popular TV show \u003Cem>‘The Biggest Loser’\u003C\u002Fem> managed to keep the weight off long term, and even so, the contestant that did become a spin instructor, not a regular desk worker.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crazy part is that when we go on a diet and successfully lose weight, we will likely \u003Cstrong>gain it back\u003C\u002Fstrong>. Yet, we are still inclined to go back on the same diet which got the weight off in the first place. That is like buying the same car that broke down 6 months later, just because it worked for 6 months.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The simple reason is, \u003Cem>the diet industry tells us that it was not the diet that was wrong\u003C\u002Fem>; it is because \u003Cstrong>YOU\u003C\u002Fstrong> did not stick to it. Did you ever sit and wonder whether having no carbs for the rest of your life is something you can honestly stick to?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>I am not saying a healthy diet and exercise is unhealthy; it most definitely is. But finding healthy eating habits, you can stick to and an exercise routine you actually enjoy is key.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We do not need to look like fitness models. Still, we do need to maintain a reasonably healthy weight, which we can maintain by \u003Cem>healthy eating habits\u003C\u002Fem> and incorporating some movement into a mostly sedentary lifestyle. A lifestyle that makes us \u003Cstrong>thrive as working professionals\u003C\u002Fstrong>.\u003C\u002Fp>\n","how-the-fitness-industry-lies","fit, industry, fitness, six-pack, diet, nutrition, slim, working professionals, wellness, gym","The fitness space is filled with men with six-pack abs and women with small waists and giant glutes. Is that the truth, though? Is there something that the fitness industry doesn't tell us?",{"id":50,"name":51,"alternativeText":52,"caption":52,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":55,"hash":87,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":88,"url":89,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":91,"updatedAt":92},113,"-how-the-fit-industry-lies.jpg","",1600,900,{"large":56,"small":66,"medium":73,"thumbnail":80},{"ext":57,"url":58,"hash":59,"mime":60,"name":61,"path":62,"size":63,"width":64,"height":65},".jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_how_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d.jpg","large_how_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d","image\u002Fjpeg","large_-how-the-fit-industry-lies.jpg",null,60.08,1000,563,{"ext":57,"url":67,"hash":68,"mime":60,"name":69,"path":62,"size":70,"width":71,"height":72},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_how_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d.jpg","small_how_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d","small_-how-the-fit-industry-lies.jpg",19.99,500,281,{"ext":57,"url":74,"hash":75,"mime":60,"name":76,"path":62,"size":77,"width":78,"height":79},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_how_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d.jpg","medium_how_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d","medium_-how-the-fit-industry-lies.jpg",36.37,750,422,{"ext":57,"url":81,"hash":82,"mime":60,"name":83,"path":62,"size":84,"width":85,"height":86},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_how_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d.jpg","thumbnail_how_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d","thumbnail_-how-the-fit-industry-lies.jpg",7.14,245,138,"how_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d",128.51,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fhow_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d.jpg","aws-s3","2021-02-14T22:00:16.877Z","2021-02-14T22:00:16.888Z",{"id":14,"name":15,"slug":16,"createdAt":94,"updatedAt":95,"publishedAt":96},"2020-12-24T19:16:00.904Z","2025-02-19T20:04:41.159Z","2024-06-26T07:27:59.419Z",{"id":36,"name":98,"slug":99,"instagram":100,"facebook":101,"bio":102,"createdAt":103,"updatedAt":104,"publishedAt":105,"linkedIn":106,"avatar":107,"avatarImg":125},"Sarah Foong","sarah-foong","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Fsf_coaching\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fsffitnesscoaching","Sarah is the fit of the group. She is a full-time licensed public accountant in London and a part-time online fitness coach. She is very passionate about helping others achieve their health and fitness goals around their work and career. She also loves a good accounting meme.\n","2021-02-14T21:45:39.373Z","2021-02-14T21:45:46.063Z","2021-02-14T21:45:46.041Z","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Fsarah-foong-aca-613b458a\u002F",{"id":108,"name":109,"alternativeText":52,"caption":52,"width":110,"height":111,"formats":112,"hash":120,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":121,"url":122,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":123,"updatedAt":124},111,"Untitled-3.jpg",250,300,{"thumbnail":113},{"ext":57,"url":114,"hash":115,"mime":60,"name":116,"path":62,"size":117,"width":118,"height":119},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Untitled_3_96d7860597.jpg","thumbnail_Untitled_3_96d7860597","thumbnail_Untitled-3.jpg",8.27,130,156,"Untitled_3_96d7860597",28.84,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FUntitled_3_96d7860597.jpg","2021-02-14T21:45:28.244Z","2021-02-14T21:45:28.251Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002FUntitled_3_96d7860597.jpg","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fhow_the_fit_industry_lies_109fc11b1d.jpg",{"pagination":128},{"page":6,"pageSize":35,"pageCount":6,"total":6},{"data":130,"meta":426},[131,200,269,334,381],{"id":132,"title":133,"createdAt":134,"updatedAt":135,"publishedAt":136,"content":137,"slug":138,"coffees":14,"seo_title":133,"keywords":139,"seo_desc":140,"featuredImage":141,"category":170,"author":173,"img":199},52,"Sexist Things Women Are Tired of Hearing (And How to Respond)","2021-02-14T21:39:58.173Z","2025-12-13T22:52:46.480Z","2021-02-17T14:44:30.056Z","You know the phrases. They come from [colleagues](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F5-toxic-phrases-used-by-colleagues-with-a-huge-ego), relatives, strangers, sometimes even friends. They're delivered casually, often with a smile, sometimes framed as compliments or jokes. And they leave you feeling... off. Annoyed. Diminished. Sometimes too caught off guard to respond.\n\nThese are the microaggressions of everyday sexism—the comments that aren't overtly hateful but still reinforce the idea that women should look a certain way, act a certain way, want certain things, and stay in certain lanes. They're so normalized that pointing them out often gets you labeled as \"too sensitive\" or \"unable to take a joke.\"\n\nBut here's the thing: these phrases aren't harmless. Research shows that exposure to everyday sexism—even the \"benevolent\" kind that sounds like flattery—is associated with increased anxiety, depression, and [decreased self-esteem](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fconfidence-gap-women-underestimate-their-abilities) in women. The cumulative effect of hearing these comments throughout a lifetime adds up.\n\nWe asked The Working Gal community to share the sexist comments they've heard most often. Here are the greatest hits—along with why they're problematic and how you might respond.\n\n## \"Why is such a beautiful girl like you single?\"\n\n**The assumption:** A woman's primary value is her attractiveness, and attractiveness should naturally lead to a relationship. Being single must therefore be a problem to be solved—or worse, a failure on her part.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** This frames a woman's relationship status as the natural consequence of her looks, as if beauty is currency that should be exchanged for partnership. It also assumes that being single is undesirable—that a woman alone is somehow incomplete. It never occurs to the asker that she might be single by choice, or that her relationship status is simply none of their business.\n\n*What you could say:* \"Because I'm a beautiful girl who doesn't want to compromise.\" Or simply: \"I'm not sure why you think that's related.\"\n\n## \"Female driver—what did you expect?\"\n\n**The assumption:** Women are inherently bad drivers. Any mistake made by a woman behind the wheel confirms this stereotype; mistakes made by men are just individual errors.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** Insurance data consistently shows that men are involved in more accidents, more fatal crashes, and more incidents of aggressive driving than women. The [stereotype persists](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fstereotype-women-in-reality-tv) despite evidence to the contrary because confirmation bias means people notice and remember instances that fit the stereotype while ignoring those that don't. It's also a convenient way to dismiss women's competence in any area—if she can't even drive, how can she be trusted with anything else?\n\n*What you could say:* \"Statistically, I expected better driving than from a man, actually.\" Or: \"I'm not sure what you expected, but you might want to check your assumptions against the data.\"\n\n## \"She must have done something to provoke him.\"\n\n**The assumption:** When a man behaves badly toward a woman—whether through harassment, aggression, or [violence](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthe-illusion-of-safety-are-women-safe-in-the-western-world)—the woman must share some of the blame. Her behavior, clothing, or presence somehow invited or justified his actions.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** This is victim-blaming in its purest form. It shifts responsibility from the person who acted badly to the person who was harmed. It suggests that men's behavior is an inevitable response to women's actions rather than a choice men make. And it creates a world where women must constantly modify their behavior to avoid \"provoking\" reactions they cannot actually control. The implication is that there's always something a woman could have done differently—and therefore, it's partly her fault.\n\n*What you could say:* \"She could have been standing there breathing, and that wouldn't justify his behavior. People are responsible for their own actions.\" Or simply: \"No, she didn't. He made a choice.\"\n\n## \"She's wife material.\"\n\n**The assumption:** Women can be categorized based on their suitability for marriage. Some women have the right qualities to be chosen as wives; others, presumably, do not. A woman's highest achievement is being deemed marriageable.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** This reduces women to objects to be evaluated for a specific purpose—like fabric being assessed for its suitability to make curtains. It implies that women should aspire to meet certain criteria to be \"chosen\" by men. It also suggests that \"wife material\" is a category with defined characteristics (usually: agreeable, domestic, attractive but not too sexual, supportive but not too ambitious). Women who don't fit these criteria are implicitly devalued. The phrase erases women's agency entirely—she's material to be shaped, not a person making her own choices.\n\n*What you could say:* \"She's a whole person who can decide what she wants to be, actually.\" Or: \"What does that even mean? And why is it any of your business?\"\n\n## \"Fortunately, my husband helps me with chores.\"\n\n**The assumption:** Housework is fundamentally the woman's responsibility. When a man participates, he's \"helping\"—going above and beyond what's expected of him. This deserves praise and gratitude.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** You can't \"help\" with something that's equally your responsibility. If a man lives in a house, the housework is his job too—not a favor he's doing for his partner. The framing of domestic labor as women's work that men graciously assist with perpetuates an unequal distribution that research shows persists even when both partners work full-time. Studies consistently find that women do significantly more housework and childcare than their male partners, and this \"second shift\" is a major contributor to burnout and career setbacks for women.\n\n*What you could say:* \"Doesn't he live there too?\" Or: \"In our house, we don't call it helping—we call it living like an adult.\"\n\n## \"You're moody today. How long has it been since you've had sex?\"\n\n**The assumption:** A woman's emotions are irrational and must be explained by her body or her sex life. If she's upset, it can't be because something legitimate is bothering her—it must be [hormones,](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F6-hormonal-changes-that-affect-you-during-fall) lack of sex, or some other physical cause that diminishes the validity of her feelings.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** This is a silencing tactic. By attributing a woman's emotions to her body or sexuality, the speaker dismisses whatever she's actually feeling or thinking. It also inappropriately sexualizes a completely unrelated situation and suggests that women's emotional states are problems to be solved through sex. Imagine asking a man the same question when he seems frustrated at work—it would be considered bizarre and inappropriate. But for women, emotions are constantly pathologized and sexualized.\n\n*What you could say:* \"I wasn't in a bad mood until you asked that question.\" Or: \"My sex life has nothing to do with my valid frustration about \\[actual issue\\].\"\n\n## \"Who wears the pants in the relationship?\"\n\n**The assumption:** Every relationship has a dominant partner and a submissive one, and the dominant role is inherently masculine (hence \"wearing the pants\"). If a woman seems assertive or if a man seems accommodating, something is wrong with the natural order.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** Healthy relationships don't have one person \"in charge.\" This question mocks partnerships where power is shared or where traditional gender roles aren't followed. It's often asked with the implication that a woman having influence is somehow emasculating to her partner—as if his masculinity depends on her submission. It also reinforces the idea that assertiveness is unfeminine and softness is unmasculine.\n\n*What you could say:* \"We both do. Skinny jeans are making a comeback.\" Or: \"That's not really how adult relationships work.\"\n\n## \"You're not like other women.\"\n\n**The assumption:** \"Other women\" are a monolithic group with negative characteristics—dramatic, shallow, high-maintenance, irrational. Being told you're \"not like them\" is meant as a compliment. You've earned approval by being different from the terrible default.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** This is a backhanded compliment that requires you to accept a [negative view of women](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fdo-people-love-to-hate-women-online) in general to feel flattered. It pits women against each other and suggests that being \"like other women\" is bad. It also puts pressure on you to maintain whatever quality made you \"different\"—you've been accepted into a special category, but that acceptance is conditional. The reality is that women are individuals with as much variation as men. There is no monolithic \"other women\" to be different from.\n\n*What you could say:* \"Neither are they.\" Or: \"What do you think 'other women' are like? Because that says more about you than about them.\"\n\n## \"Men don't cry.\"\n\n![10-sexist-quotes-2.png](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002F10_sexist_quotes_2_c621935043.png)\n\n**The assumption:** Emotional expression is feminine, and femininity is weakness. Real men suppress their emotions. Crying is shameful for anyone with a Y chromosome.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** While this phrase is directed at men, it harms everyone. It tells men that their emotions are unacceptable, contributing to mental health crises and difficulty forming emotional connections. But it's also deeply sexist toward women because it works by using femininity as an insult—\"don't cry\" means \"don't act like a woman.\" The underlying message is that being like a woman is degrading. Every time we police men's emotions by associating them with femininity, we reinforce the idea that there's something wrong with being female.\n\n*What you could say:* \"Men cry all the time. It's called having emotions.\" Or: \"That's a weird thing to say about a normal human function.\"\n\n## \"Don't act like a little girl.\"\n\n**The assumption:** Being \"like a girl\" is inherently negative—weak, silly, emotional, immature. It's an insult to be compared to a female child.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** \"Like a girl\" is used as shorthand for \"badly\" or \"weakly\" across many contexts—throwing like a girl, running like a girl, crying like a girl. This teaches both boys and girls from a young age that being female is something to avoid being compared to. Research has shown that [girls' confidence](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fconfidence-at-work) plummets during puberty, and this [kind of language](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-language-is-affected-by-our-gender) is part of the reason—they absorb the message that their gender is synonymous with inferiority. Meanwhile, boys learn that the worst thing they can be is feminine.\n\n*What you could say:* \"What do you mean by that exactly?\" (Making people explain their sexism is often more effective than arguing.) Or: \"Little girls are awesome. Not sure why that's an insult.\"\n\n## \"How will you get married if you don't know how to cook?\"\n\n**The assumption:** Marriage is every woman's goal, and her domestic skills determine her marriageability. A man chooses a wife based on her ability to serve him. A woman who can't cook has failed at a fundamental female requirement.\n\n**Why it's problematic:** This treats marriage as a transaction where women offer domestic service in exchange for... what, exactly? Financial support? Social acceptability? It assumes women exist to take care of men rather than to live their own lives. It also ignores that plenty of married couples share cooking duties, order takeout, hire help, or have husbands who cook. The idea that a woman's cooking ability determines her worth as a partner is both outdated and insulting to everyone involved.\n\n*What you could say:* \"I'll hire a chef.\" Or: \"The same way men who can't cook get married, I assume.\" Or simply: \"It's 2025.\"\n\n## Why These Phrases Persist\n\nEveryday sexism persists because it's woven into our language and culture so thoroughly that it often goes unnoticed—even by the people saying it. Many of these phrases are passed down through generations, repeated without reflection, and normalized through constant use.\n\nResearch on \"benevolent sexism\"—sexism that appears positive on the surface, like compliments or protective behavior—shows it can be just as harmful as hostile sexism. Women exposed to benevolent sexism perform worse on cognitive tasks, feel less competent, and have lower career aspirations. The \"nice\" packaging makes it harder to identify and push back against.\n\nThese comments also persist because calling them out is socially costly. Women who object to sexist remarks are often labeled humorless, oversensitive, or difficult. The phrase \"it's just a joke\" is used to silence legitimate concerns. Many women learn to let comments slide rather than face the social consequences of speaking up.\n\n## How to Respond (When You Choose To)\n\nNot every sexist comment requires a response. Sometimes you don't have the energy. Sometimes the social or professional cost is too high. Sometimes you just want to get through the interaction and move on. That's valid. You're not obligated to educate everyone.\n\nBut when you do want to respond, here are some approaches:\n\nAsk them to explain. \"What do you mean by that?\" or \"I don't get it—can you explain?\" Forces the speaker to articulate their assumptions, which often reveals how problematic they are. People frequently backpedal when asked to spell out what they actually meant.\n\nUse humor. A witty response can deflect while still making a point. It's harder to accuse someone of being humorless when they're clearly being funny. The comebacks throughout this article are examples of this approach.\n\nState the obvious. Sometimes simply naming what's happening is powerful. \"That's a sexist thing to say\" or \"That's a strange assumption to make about women\" can be enough to create a pause.\n\nFlip the script. Ask whether they'd say the same thing about a man, or to a man. The absurdity of the double standard often becomes clear when the genders are reversed.\n\nChoose your battles. Your well-being matters more than correcting every person who says something ignorant. It's okay to save your energy for the conversations that matter most.\n\n## The Bigger Picture\n\nThese phrases might seem small individually—just words, just jokes, just casual comments. But they add up. They shape how women see themselves and how the world sees women. They create environments where more serious forms of sexism can flourish unchallenged.\n\nNaming them matters. Recognizing them matters. And when we have the energy and the opportunity, pushing back matters too—not because we'll change every mind, but because silence is often interpreted as agreement.\n\nThe next time someone asks how you'll get married if you can't cook, or tells you you're not like other women, or wonders why a beautiful girl like you is single—know that you're not oversensitive for being bothered. You're just paying attention.\n\n## Frequently Asked Questions\n\n### What is everyday sexism?\n\nEveryday sexism refers to the routine, often subtle forms of gender discrimination that women encounter regularly—comments, behaviors, and assumptions that reinforce gender stereotypes or treat women as inferior. Unlike overt discrimination, everyday sexism is often normalized and dismissed as harmless.\n\n### What is benevolent sexism?\n\nBenevolent sexism is sexism that appears positive or complimentary but still reinforces traditional gender roles and women's subordinate status. Examples include viewing women as pure, fragile, or needing protection. Research shows benevolent sexism can be as harmful as hostile sexism, affecting women's cognitive performance and self-esteem.\n\n### How do I respond to [sexist comments at work](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-handle-sexist-people-in-business)?\n\nIn professional settings, consider asking clarifying questions ('What do you mean by that?'), calmly stating that the comment was inappropriate, or addressing it privately with the person or through HR if it's a pattern. Document incidents in case they escalate. Your approach may depend on your relationship with the person, your position, and your workplace culture.\n\n### Why is 'you're not like other girls' problematic?\n\nThis phrase requires you to accept a negative view of women to feel complimented. It implies that 'other women' are a monolithic group with undesirable traits and that being different from them is an achievement. It pits women against each other and suggests that femininity itself is something to distance yourself from.\n\n### What is a microaggression?\n\nMicroaggressions are subtle, often unintentional comments or behaviors that communicate negative or derogatory messages to members of marginalized groups. In the context of gender, microaggressions include comments that reinforce stereotypes, question women's competence, or treat women as objects. They're called 'micro' because they're small individually, but their cumulative effect is significant.\n\n### Should I always call out sexist comments?\n\nNo. You're not obligated to educate everyone or respond to every comment. Consider your energy, the relationship, the setting, and the potential consequences. Sometimes letting something go is the right choice for your well-being. Save your energy for the battles that matter most to you.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n","10-sexist-quotes-every-woman-has-heard-1","sexist phrases, everyday sexism, microaggressions against women, sexist comments, how to respond to sexism, casual sexism examples, sexist things people say, gender stereotypes","From 'You're not like other girls' to 'Who wears the pants?'—these sexist phrases disguise themselves as compliments or jokes. Here's why they're harmful and how to respond.",{"id":142,"name":143,"alternativeText":52,"caption":52,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":144,"hash":165,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":166,"url":167,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":168,"updatedAt":169},110,"sexist-quotes.jpg",{"large":145,"small":150,"medium":155,"thumbnail":160},{"ext":57,"url":146,"hash":147,"mime":60,"name":148,"path":62,"size":149,"width":64,"height":65},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_sexist_quotes_4865025fff.jpg","large_sexist_quotes_4865025fff","large_sexist-quotes.jpg",64.39,{"ext":57,"url":151,"hash":152,"mime":60,"name":153,"path":62,"size":154,"width":71,"height":72},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_sexist_quotes_4865025fff.jpg","small_sexist_quotes_4865025fff","small_sexist-quotes.jpg",19.33,{"ext":57,"url":156,"hash":157,"mime":60,"name":158,"path":62,"size":159,"width":78,"height":79},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_sexist_quotes_4865025fff.jpg","medium_sexist_quotes_4865025fff","medium_sexist-quotes.jpg",37.77,{"ext":57,"url":161,"hash":162,"mime":60,"name":163,"path":62,"size":164,"width":85,"height":86},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_sexist_quotes_4865025fff.jpg","thumbnail_sexist_quotes_4865025fff","thumbnail_sexist-quotes.jpg",5.77,"sexist_quotes_4865025fff",149.57,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsexist_quotes_4865025fff.jpg","2021-02-14T21:42:06.845Z","2021-02-14T21:42:06.856Z",{"id":22,"name":23,"slug":24,"createdAt":171,"updatedAt":172,"publishedAt":96},"2020-12-24T19:16:11.810Z","2025-10-01T19:49:12.086Z",{"id":174,"name":175,"slug":176,"instagram":177,"facebook":178,"bio":179,"createdAt":180,"updatedAt":181,"publishedAt":182,"linkedIn":62,"avatar":183},6,"The Working Gal Team","the-working-gal-team","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Fthe_working_gal\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Ftheworkinggal","At The Working Gal, we prioritize collective strategic insight. This piece reflects the shared expertise of our editorial board and specialists, delivering a 360° analysis of modern business and executive lifestyle.","2021-02-14T21:17:05.180Z","2026-04-12T03:32:03.659Z","2021-02-14T21:17:25.177Z",{"id":184,"name":185,"alternativeText":52,"caption":52,"width":110,"height":110,"formats":186,"hash":194,"ext":188,"mime":191,"size":195,"url":196,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":197,"updatedAt":198},108,"Untitled-7.png",{"thumbnail":187},{"ext":188,"url":189,"hash":190,"mime":191,"name":192,"path":62,"size":193,"width":119,"height":119},".png","https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Untitled_7_b2bf764bcd.png","thumbnail_Untitled_7_b2bf764bcd","image\u002Fpng","thumbnail_Untitled-7.png",12.8,"Untitled_7_b2bf764bcd",22.3,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FUntitled_7_b2bf764bcd.png","2021-02-14T21:15:43.138Z","2021-02-14T21:15:43.147Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fsexist_quotes_4865025fff.jpg",{"id":201,"title":202,"createdAt":203,"updatedAt":204,"publishedAt":205,"content":206,"slug":207,"coffees":14,"seo_title":202,"keywords":208,"seo_desc":209,"featuredImage":210,"category":239,"author":242,"img":268},51,"What are the Biggest Challenges Freelancers Face?","2021-02-14T11:06:53.604Z","2026-04-11T23:05:25.568Z","2021-02-14T11:06:56.696Z","Freelancing has been a part of life since my early professional years. I have also worked as a traditional employee, but to be honest, a freelancer's life is more suitable for me. I get to arrange my own schedule, manage my time and working hours, and not have a \"boss\" waiting for me every day and micromanage me around the clock.\n\nHowever, as every profession has its pros and cons, the life of a professional freelancer can be quite tricky and not that awesome as it sounds. Over the years, I've had the temptation to leave my freelance life behind and get an office job so that my life gets a bit more organized and less complex. Because even if freelancing sounds simple, it's actually not—and there are significant challenges that freelancers face.\n\n[According to a 2025 Upwork study, 64 million Americans now freelance, representing 38% of the U.S. workforce](https:\u002F\u002Finvestors.upwork.com\u002Fnews-releases\u002Fnews-release-details\u002Fupwork-study-finds-64-million-americans-freelanced-2023-adding). Yet despite this growth, freelancers report facing consistent obstacles that traditional employees don't encounter. The good news? With the right strategies, these challenges are entirely manageable.\n\nHowever, don't get my personal experience as something that should be an obstacle for your own aspirations. Every job has its challenges and difficulties, but it depends what you want from life and how you want your life to be. Some are more of \"free spirits\" while others prefer the stability of a 9-5 job. In any case, you need to know both the perks as well as the caveats of each option.\nLet's dive into the main challenges freelancers face—and more importantly, how to overcome them.\n\n## Finding and Maintaining a Steady Client Base\n\nWorking in a company or organization is relatively more straightforward. If you work for someone else, you usually do not have to worry day and night about getting new customers; somebody else does—mainly their marketing or sales departments. But [being your own boss](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fexpensive-mistakes-building-business-founder-lessons) means that to earn a living, you should definitely dive into driving some clients to sell your product or services.\n\nThis can be particularly challenging if [you are an introvert](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-can-an-introvert-succeed-in-the-workplace) and not very fond of socializing daily. According to Freelancer.com's 2025 report, 73% of freelancers identify client acquisition as their \\#1 stress factor, especially in the first three years of business.\n\nHow to Overcome This Challenge:\n\n![freelancer working from home](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fchallenges_freelancers_face_e7ba2b5a96.webp)\n\nThe key is building systems that work for you, not against your personality. Here's what actually helps:\n\n* **Leverage your existing network first.** Your former colleagues, classmates, and professional contacts are your warmest leads. Send personalized messages (not mass emails) explaining your services.  \n* **Create a portfolio that speaks for itself.** A well-designed website with case studies and testimonials does the networking for you. Potential clients can evaluate your work without you having to \"sell\" constantly.  \n* **Use platforms strategically.** Upwork, Fiverr, and LinkedIn aren't just job boards—they're marketing tools. Optimize your profiles with keywords clients actually search for.  \n* **Implement the 80\u002F20 rule.** Spend 80% of your networking time deepening relationships with existing clients who might refer you or hire you again, and only 20% on cold outreach.  \n* **Build passive lead generation.** Start a blog, create helpful content on LinkedIn, or offer free resources that demonstrate your expertise. Let your work bring clients to you.\n\n## Dealing with Inconsistent Workflow\n\nUntil you manage to find the clients and keep providing them services on a regular basis, there might be short or long periods when you won't have the desired workflow—freelancers have dry spells, too. In some professions, the workflow depends on many factors that are completely outside your control.\n\nFor instance, when I worked in translation, I had to go through some periods that were \"low,\" hence my income seemed like a far, far away dream. A 2025 survey by Freelancers Union found that [61% of freelancers experience at least one significant income gap per year,](https:\u002F\u002Fnation1099.com\u002Fgig-economy-data-freelancer-study\u002F#:~:text=The%20average%20freelancer%20reaches%20their,Rowe%20Price) with the average dry spell lasting 6-8 weeks.\n\n### How to Overcome The Inconsistent Workflow:\n\nInconsistent workflow is the nature of freelancing, but you can minimize its impact:\n\n* **Build a client pipeline.** Always be cultivating relationships with potential clients, even when you're busy. Your pipeline should always have 3-5 warm prospects.  \n* **Diversify your client base.** Never let one client represent more than 40% of your income. This protects you when they inevitably pause projects or end contracts.  \n* **Set up retainer agreements**. Pitch ongoing monthly retainers to your best clients. Even one retainer client creates a baseline income you can count on.  \n* **Use slow periods strategically.** When work is light, [invest time in marketing](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.edl.gr\u002Fblog\u002Fthe-best-advertising-platforms-for-small-businesses), skill development, and portfolio updates. This turns downtime into business-building time.  \n* **Plan for seasonality.** Track your busiest and slowest months over a year. Once you know your pattern, you can prepare financially and emotionally for the predictable dips.\n\n## Managing Income Instability and Financial Stress\n\nAs a result of the no-work periods, your income may be diminished or zeroed. The good news is that nobody can be sure about what the future holds—even people with quite stable jobs. However, the chances are higher that freelancers will have dry periods where the income won't be enough.\n\nThis instability can cause serious financial challenges, considering that your bills have to be paid at a constant pace, and you also have to eat or feed your family. This may be okay for some people, but for others, it can be extremely stressful and end up ruining their quality of life. In fact, financial stress is cited as the primary reason [42% of freelancers return to traditional employment within their first two years.](https:\u002F\u002Finvestors.upwork.com\u002Fnews-releases\u002Fnews-release-details\u002Fupwork-study-finds-1-4-us-skilled-knowledge-workers-now-work)\n\n### How to Overcome The Income Instability:\n\nFinancial stability as a freelancer requires proactive planning:\n\n* **Build an emergency fund of 6-12 months.** This is non-negotiable. Start small—even $100 per month adds up. This fund covers you during slow periods without panic.  \n* **Separate business and personal finances.** Open a business checking account and pay yourself a consistent \"salary\" from it. This creates predictability even when client payments fluctuate.  \n* **Master the art of [personal finance](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Ffinancial-self-sabotage-why-you-fail-to-manage-your-finances).** Know exactly what you need to earn monthly to cover basics, taxes, and savings. This number becomes your non-negotiable minimum.  \n* **Set aside 25-30% for taxes immediately.** Don't spend money that's not really yours. Move it to a separate savings account as soon as you're paid.  \n* **Consider income smoothing tools.** Apps like Even or Steady help freelancers receive consistent paychecks by analyzing your income patterns and smoothing out the highs and lows.  \n* [**Negotiate payment terms upfront.**](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fwatch?v=33RHmOzcNPo&t=584s) Request deposits (30-50%), milestone payments, or shorter payment terms (Net 15 instead of Net 30). The faster you get paid, the less cash flow stress.\n\n## Struggling with Work-Life Balance and Burnout\n\nWorking as a freelancer, especially in the beginning of your freelance career, you can easily get overwhelmed because the regular and fixed working hours are, actually, not fixed at all. There will be times when you'll have to [work all night or all weekend](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-avoid-late-nights-at-work). You may lose weekends, drinks with friends, or even valuable time for yourself.\n\nThis isn't easy. And unfortunately, you need to be in the industry for some time to be able to negotiate fairer terms and conditions. When someone [starts their career](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthe-ultimate-guide-for-rookies-at-work), they usually don't charge a lot, so in order to make ends meet, they have to take on more work—hence less free time. The Freelancers Union reports that 68% of freelancers work more than 40 hours per week, with 31% working over 50 hours.\n\n### How to Overcome This Challenge:\n\nBoundaries are essential for sustainable freelancing:\n\n* **Set actual working hours—and stick to them.** Just because you can work anytime doesn't mean you should work all the time. Define your hours (e.g., 9am-6pm) and communicate them to clients.  \n* **Create a dedicated workspace.** Physical boundaries help mental boundaries. When you leave your workspace, work ends.  \n* [**Learn to say no.**](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F50-ways-to-say-no-politely) Every \"yes\" to a project is a \"no\" to something else—rest, family time, [self-discipline](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-practice-self-discipline), or personal projects. Choose strategically.  \n* **Batch similar tasks.** Group all client calls on specific days, all administrative work on one afternoon. This prevents constant context-switching that drains energy.  \n* **Schedule breaks like meetings.** Lunch breaks, exercise time, and end-of-day shutdown rituals deserve calendar blocks just like client calls.  \n* **Charge appropriately.** When you charge rates that reflect your expertise, you don't need to work 60 hours to survive. Quality over quantity.\n\n## Handling Administrative Tasks and Financial Management\n\nBeing a freelancer is like running a business. And it requires managing a lot of paperwork, invoices, chasing payments, submitting taxes, and more. This, especially when you don't like it at all (like me), or you don't hire a good accountant, can be a major headache.\n\n![freelancer working from home](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fchallenges_freelancers_face_8987a15e00.webp)\n\nIn order to actually make money out of freelancing, you need to be on top of things—and not only regarding your projects. You need to understand personal finances, be disciplined when it [comes to your expenses](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F15-financial-mistakes-that-keep-you-broke), and learn how taxes work. A 2025 study found that freelancers spend an average of 8-12 hours per month on administrative tasks alone.\n\n### How to Overcome This Challenge:\n\nSystems and tools make administrative work manageable:\n\n* **Use accounting software from day one.** Tools like FreshBooks, Wave (free), or QuickBooks Self-Employed track income, expenses, and taxes automatically. They'll save you hours at tax time.  \n* **Create invoice and contract templates.** Never start from scratch. Standard templates ensure you don't forget crucial terms and make sending invoices a 2-minute task.  \n* [**Automate what you can**](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fbest-ai-productivity-tools)**.** Set up automatic invoice reminders, recurring invoices for retainer clients, and digital payment systems. Less manual work means fewer errors.  \n* Schedule admin time weekly. Every Friday afternoon, handle invoicing, expense tracking, and follow-ups. Regular small doses prevent overwhelming backlogs.  \n* **Know when to outsource.** Hiring a bookkeeper or accountant for $200-500\u002Fyear is worth it if they save you 20+ hours and help you avoid costly tax mistakes.  \n* **Track time from the start.** Even if you charge flat rates, knowing how long tasks actually take helps you price accurately and identify time drains.\n\n## The Loneliness and Isolation Factor\n\nHere's a challenge that doesn't get discussed enough: freelancing can be lonely. When you work from home without colleagues, water cooler conversations, or team lunches, professional isolation sets in. This affects both your mental health and your professional growth—you lose the informal learning that happens in office environments.\n\n[A Buffer report](https:\u002F\u002Fbuffer.com\u002Fstate-of-remote-work\u002F2023) found that 21% of remote workers (including freelancers) cite loneliness as their biggest struggle, surpassing even compensation concerns.\n\n### How to Overcome Loneliness and Isolation:\n\nConnection requires intentional effort:\n\n* **Join coworking spaces (even part-time).** Working alongside other professionals combats isolation while maintaining independence. Many offer day passes if you can't commit to full membership.  \n* **Create a freelancer community.** Find online communities, local meetups, or professional associations in your field. These become your new \"colleagues.\"  \n* **Schedule regular social work sessions.** Meet other freelancers for coffee shop work dates. The parallel productivity is motivating.  \n* **Maintain non-work relationships.** When work is home, it's easy to never leave. Prioritize friendships and activities outside your apartment.  \n* **Consider hybrid arrangements.** Some freelancers take on one part-time role or volunteer position purely for the social connection and structure it provides.\n\n## Moving Forward: Creating Your Sustainable Freelance Life\n\nFreelancing can be a great business opportunity, especially for those who do not like being in an office and working fixed hours. It has significant benefits, but it's also demanding. The difference between freelancers who thrive and those who burn out isn't talent—it's systems.\n\nThe challenges outlined here are real, but they're also navigable with the right strategies. Start by addressing your biggest pain point first. For most freelancers, that's either client acquisition or financial instability. Pick one, implement the solutions for three months, then move to the next challenge.\n\nIt is also worth remembering that every traditional job has its own set of challenges—office politics, limited autonomy, commutes, and rigid schedules. The question isn't whether freelancing is challenging (it is), but whether its specific challenges align with your strengths, values, and desired lifestyle.\n\nIf they do? The freedom, flexibility, and potential for building something entirely your own make navigating these challenges absolutely worthwhile.\n\n## Frequently Asked Questions About Freelancing Challenges\n\n### What is the biggest challenge of being a freelancer?\n\nThe biggest challenge varies by individual, but most freelancers cite income instability and inconsistent workflow as their primary concern. According to 2025 industry data, 73% of freelancers identify client acquisition and financial unpredictability as their top stressors. However, these challenges can be significantly reduced through proper financial planning, building a diverse client base, and maintaining an emergency fund of 6-12 months of expenses.\n\n### How do freelancers deal with inconsistent income?\n\nSuccessful freelancers manage inconsistent income by: (1) Building an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses, (2) Setting aside 25-30% of every payment for taxes immediately, (3) Paying themselves a consistent \"salary\" from a business account rather than spending unpredictably, (4) Securing retainer clients for baseline monthly income, and (5) Diversifying their client base so no single client represents more than 40% of total income. Financial discipline is the foundation of sustainable freelancing.\n\n### Why do most freelancers fail?\n\nMost freelancers don't fail due to lack of skill—they fail due to inadequate business systems. Common reasons include: underpricing services and working unsustainably long hours, lacking a consistent client acquisition system, poor financial management and insufficient emergency savings, [inability to set boundaries](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.youtube.com\u002Fwatch?v=MqgiluUC4X0) leading to burnout, and treating freelancing as a temporary gig rather than a legitimate business. Success requires both technical expertise AND business acumen.\n\n### How many hours a week do freelancers really work?\n\nDespite the flexibility myth, most freelancers work more than traditional employees. A 2025 Freelancers Union survey found 68% work over 40 hours weekly, with 31% exceeding 50 hours. Early-career freelancers often work 50-60 hours per week due to lower rates that require higher volume. However, established freelancers who charge appropriate rates and set firm boundaries typically work 30-40 hours weekly—proving that strategic pricing and saying \"no\" to low-value work is essential for achieving the work-life balance freelancing promises.\n\n### Is freelancing worth the stress?\n\n[Whether freelancing is \"worth it\"](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fthe-gig-economy-is-it-right-for-you) depends entirely on your values and priorities. Freelancing offers unmatched autonomy, flexibility, and income potential—but requires trading the security of traditional employment for independence. For those who value control over their schedule, choice in projects, and building their own business, the trade-off is worthwhile. However, if financial predictability and employer-provided benefits are crucial to your peace of mind, traditional employment may be a better fit. Neither path is superior—they simply suit different people.\n\n### Related Articles:\n\n* [Why It’s Awesome To Work From Home](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fwork-from-home)  \n* [How Can an Introvert Succeed in the Workplace](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-can-an-introvert-succeed-in-the-workplace)  \n* [Financial Self-Sabotage: Why You Fail to Manage Your Finances](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Ffinancial-self-sabotage-why-you-fail-to-manage-your-finances)  \n* [15 Financial Mistakes That Keep You Broke](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F15-financial-mistakes-that-keep-you-broke)\n\n\n\n\n\n","what-are-the-biggest-challenges-freelancers-face","freelancer struggles, freelancer challenges, freelancer, biggest challenges of freelancers, freelance career struggles, challenges freelancers face","Life as a freelancer can be fascinating but there are times that even freelancers face some challenges. Read the article to find out what are the most common freelancer struggles.",{"id":211,"name":212,"alternativeText":52,"caption":52,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":213,"hash":234,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":235,"url":236,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":237,"updatedAt":238},104,"freelancers-difficulties-1.jpg",{"large":214,"small":219,"medium":224,"thumbnail":229},{"ext":57,"url":215,"hash":216,"mime":60,"name":217,"path":62,"size":218,"width":64,"height":65},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_freelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f.jpg","large_freelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f","large_freelancers-difficulties-1.jpg",90.61,{"ext":57,"url":220,"hash":221,"mime":60,"name":222,"path":62,"size":223,"width":71,"height":72},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_freelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f.jpg","small_freelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f","small_freelancers-difficulties-1.jpg",26.55,{"ext":57,"url":225,"hash":226,"mime":60,"name":227,"path":62,"size":228,"width":78,"height":79},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_freelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f.jpg","medium_freelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f","medium_freelancers-difficulties-1.jpg",52.64,{"ext":57,"url":230,"hash":231,"mime":60,"name":232,"path":62,"size":233,"width":85,"height":86},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_freelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f.jpg","thumbnail_freelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f","thumbnail_freelancers-difficulties-1.jpg",8.24,"freelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f",194.79,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Ffreelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f.jpg","2021-02-14T10:55:12.245Z","2021-02-14T10:55:12.269Z",{"id":6,"name":7,"slug":8,"createdAt":240,"updatedAt":241,"publishedAt":96},"2020-12-24T19:15:38.145Z","2020-12-24T19:15:38.158Z",{"id":6,"name":243,"slug":244,"instagram":245,"facebook":246,"bio":247,"createdAt":248,"updatedAt":249,"publishedAt":250,"linkedIn":251,"avatar":252},"Dimitra","dimitra","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Fdimdimi\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Fdimitra.lioliou.9","She worked in corporate, then embraced the freelancer dream and built two businesses. In the meantime, she learned five foreign languages, picked up a Master's in Digital Marketing, and somehow ended up deep in the world of AI Risk Strategy — because understanding people was always the strategy anyway.\nNow she spends her time between Greece and the US, meeting with clients, writing about whatever life brings, and helping businesses figure out what AI gets wrong before it costs them.\nJust a suggestion: don't ask her about languages. She will never stop talking.","2020-12-24T18:56:38.909Z","2026-02-19T19:46:02.745Z","2020-12-24T18:56:43.888Z","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Fdimitra-lioliou\u002F",{"id":253,"name":254,"alternativeText":255,"caption":256,"width":110,"height":110,"formats":257,"hash":264,"ext":188,"mime":191,"size":265,"url":266,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":267,"updatedAt":267},1244,"Dimitra Lioliou.png","dimitra lioliou profile pic","dimitra lioliou the working gal",{"thumbnail":258},{"ext":188,"url":259,"hash":260,"mime":191,"name":261,"path":62,"size":262,"width":119,"height":119,"sizeInBytes":263},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_Dimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044.png","thumbnail_Dimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044","thumbnail_Dimitra Lioliou.png",47.83,47833,"Dimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044",34.56,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002FDimitra_Lioliou_4c495e8044.png","2025-04-09T22:06:21.464Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Ffreelancers_difficulties_1_b9313b210f.jpg",{"id":270,"title":271,"createdAt":272,"updatedAt":273,"publishedAt":274,"content":275,"slug":276,"coffees":14,"seo_title":271,"keywords":277,"seo_desc":278,"featuredImage":279,"category":308,"author":309,"img":333},50,"How Introverts Can Succeed at Work: Leadership Tips for Quiet Professionals ","2021-02-05T21:54:50.891Z","2025-10-25T20:01:16.326Z","2021-02-05T21:54:59.201Z","Scan through job postings these days and you'll see it everywhere: \"seeking outgoing team players,\" \"excellent communication skills required,\" \"must be comfortable in fast-paced, collaborative environments.\" The subtext is clear: extroverts wanted.\n\nIf you're an introvert reading this, you might be thinking: *Does this mean I'm doomed?* Will I never climb the career ladder? Am I fundamentally unsuited for leadership?\n\nHere's the truth that nobody's telling you: That's complete nonsense.\n\nRoughly 30-50% of the workforce consists of introverts, and research consistently shows that introverts can be just as effective—sometimes *more* effective—as leaders than their extroverted counterparts. Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Mark Zuckerberg, Barack Obama, and countless other highly successful leaders are self-identified introverts.\n\nThe problem isn't your personality. The problem is a workplace culture that's been designed primarily for extroverts—and the mistaken belief that you need to become someone you're not in order to succeed.\n\n## Understanding Introversion vs. Extroversion (And Why It Actually Matters)\n\nFirst, let's clear up some misconceptions. Introversion is not the same as shyness. It's not about being antisocial, awkward, or lacking confidence. According to personality research by Myers and Briggs, introversion and extroversion describe how people derive and restore energy:\n\n### Introverts:\n\n* Recharge through solitude and quiet reflection  \n* Process thoughts internally before speaking  \n* Prefer deep, meaningful conversations over small talk  \n* Think before acting  \n* Focus energy on their inner world of ideas and reflections\n\n### Extroverts:\n\n* Recharge through social interaction and activity  \n* Think out loud and process through conversation  \n* Thrive in stimulating, high-energy environments  \n* Act then reflect  \n* Focus energy on the outer world of people and experiences\n\nNeither is better than the other. They're simply different approaches to navigating the world—and both bring valuable strengths to the workplace.\n\n## The Introvert Bias in the Workplace\n\nDespite introverts making up nearly half the workforce, research shows a clear bias toward extroversion in corporate environments:\n\n[A UC Berkeley study](https:\u002F\u002Fnews.colby.edu\u002Fstory\u002Fwho-gets-ahead-in-the-workplace\u002F#:~:text=While%20extroverts%20gained%20more%20power,in%20positions%20of%20greater%20power.%E2%80%9D) found that people consistently hire and promote those with extroverted personality traits (assertive, forceful, self-assured) to [leadership roles](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fwhy-women-are-underrepresented-in-leadership-positions). Harvard Business Review data reveals that the higher up you go in management, the more likely leaders are to be extroverted.\n\nOne poll found that [65% of senior executives consider introversion a *liability* for leaders](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fpulse\u002Fwhy-introverts-make-great-leaders-susan-peppercorn). Other studies call extroversion \"the single most important trait for a leader to have.\"\n\nThis bias has real consequences. Introverts often feel pressured to adopt an extroverted persona at work, leading to exhaustion, decreased effectiveness, and the sense that they're fundamentally not cut out for advancement.\n\nBut here's what the research actually shows: The bias is wrong.\n\n## Why Introverts Make Excellent Leaders (Backed by Research)\n\n### The Data Doesn't Lie\n\nAdam Grant and colleagues [conducted groundbreaking research on leadership effectiveness](https:\u002F\u002Fhbr.org\u002F2010\u002F12\u002Fthe-hidden-advantages-of-quiet-bosses) comparing introverts and extroverts. Their findings? Both were equally successful as leaders—but their success depended on the type of team they were managing.\n\nIn a study of 57 pizza store managers and 374 employees:\n\n* Extroverted leaders performed best with passive teams, showing 16% higher profits than average  \n* Introverted leaders excelled with proactive teams—those that actively voiced opinions and needed less supervision\n\nWhy did introverts outperform with proactive teams? Because introverted leaders have a natural tendency to listen more carefully and be more receptive to group ideas. Their teams felt more valued and motivated to work harder.\n\n### The Unique Strengths Introverts Bring to Leadership\n\n[Research from the University of Helsinki](https:\u002F\u002Fpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\u002Farticles\u002FPMC7734327\u002F) found that introverts process information more deeply, leading to more deliberate, strategic decision-making. Here are the specific advantages introverted leaders bring:\n\n#### 1\\. Deep Listening \n\nWhile extroverts often process thoughts by talking them through, introverts excel at active listening. This makes team members feel heard, valued, and more willing to contribute ideas.\n\n#### 2\\. Thoughtful Decision-Making \n\nIntroverts naturally take time to analyze situations thoroughly before acting. This reflective approach often leads to better long-term strategic planning.\n\n![introvert-at-work.jpg](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fintrovert_at_work_6d05154b7e.jpg)\n\n#### 3\\. Calm Presence \n\nIntroverts tend to create a sense of ease in others. Their calm, attentive presence makes people feel comfortable opening up in ways that happen less often with talkative extroverts.\n\n#### 4\\. Written Communication \n\nExcellence Many introverts prefer communicating in writing, which often results in clearer, more thoughtful messages than off-the-cuff verbal communication.\n\n#### 5\\. Empowering Team Members \n\nRather than dominating conversations, introverted leaders create space for others to shine—fostering autonomy and development in their teams.\n\n## Real-World Examples of Successful Introverted Leaders\n\nYou're in good company. Some of the world's most successful leaders identify as introverts:\n\nBill Gates (Microsoft co-founder) famously said: \"If you're clever, you can learn to get the benefits of being an introvert.\" He credits his reflective nature for his success in building one of the most valuable companies in history.\n\nWarren Buffett acknowledges that when he started his career, he had the intelligence for business but needed to develop relationship and influence skills. He did so without abandoning his introverted nature.\n\nMark Zuckerberg (Meta founder) is described by Sheryl Sandberg as \"shy and introverted\" and often perceived as not warm—yet he built one of the most influential tech companies in the world.\n\nDouglas Conant turned around Campbell's Soup from having the worst employee engagement scores of any Fortune 500 company. His introverted leadership style prioritized deep listening and authentic connection.\n\n## Practical Strategies: How Introverts Can Thrive at Work\n\n### 1\\. Stop Apologizing for Being an Introvert\n\nThe single biggest mistake introverts make? Trying to become extroverts. This exhausts you, decreases your effectiveness, and prevents you from leveraging your natural strengths.\n\nWhat to do instead:\n\n* Recognize that your introversion is an asset, not a liability  \n* Stop using phrases like \"Sorry, I'm just an introvert\" or \"I'm not much of a people person\"  \n* Own your working style: \"I do my best thinking when I have time to reflect before meetings\"\n\n### 2\\. Create Your Ideal Work Environment\n\nWhile you can't control everything about your workplace, be strategic about what you *can* control.\n\nEnergy management strategies:\n\n* Don't schedule back-to-back social interactions if possible  \n* Take lunch alone sometimes to recharge (this isn't antisocial—it's necessary)  \n* Use \"focus time\" blocks on your calendar to protect deep work periods  \n* Take short walks or find quiet spaces when you need to decompress  \n* Work from home strategically when you have tasks requiring deep concentration\n\n### 3\\. Prepare, Prepare, Prepare\n\nIntroverts rarely excel at spontaneous, off-the-cuff presentations. The good news? You don't have to.\n\nPreparation tactics:\n\n* Request meeting agendas in advance  \n* Develop talking points before important conversations  \n* Practice presentations multiple times  \n* Prepare questions before networking events  \n* Schedule meetings rather than relying on impromptu hallway conversations\n\nWhen others see how thoroughly you've prepared, they recognize the value you bring.\n\n### 4\\. Leverage Your Listening Superpower\n\nYour ability to truly listen is rare and valuable. Use it strategically.\n\nHow to maximize your listening advantage:\n\n* Proactively offer to be a sounding board for colleagues  \n* In meetings, observe dynamics before contributing  \n* Ask thoughtful follow-up questions  \n* Take notes to remember details others miss  \n* Use phrases like \"Tell me more about that\" to draw people out\n\n### 5\\. Communicate in Ways That Play to Your Strengths\n\nYou don't have to dominate verbal conversations to have influence.\n\n![introvert woman working from home](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fintroverts_at_work_e0a63d4ec8.webp)\n\nStrategic communication for introverts:\n\n* Follow up important conversations with thoughtful emails summarizing key points  \n* Share ideas through well-written memos or documentation  \n* Use one-on-one meetings rather than large group settings when possible  \n* Prepare concise statements for meetings so you can contribute meaningfully without extensive speaking  \n* Leverage asynchronous communication tools (Slack, project management platforms) where you can craft responses\n\n### 6\\. Redefine Networking on Your Terms\n\n[Traditional networking](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-network)—working a room, making small talk with dozens of strangers—is exhausting for introverts. But networking is still important. So do it differently.\n\n#### Introvert-friendly networking:\n\n* Focus on building fewer, deeper relationships rather than collecting business cards  \n* Arrive early to events when there are fewer people  \n* Set specific goals (meet 3 people, not 30\\)  \n* Follow up in writing after brief in-person meetings  \n* Leverage LinkedIn for relationship building  \n* Suggest coffee meetings or video calls instead of large networking events\n\n### 7\\. Speak Up (But Strategically)\n\nYes, you need to share your ideas and make your voice heard. But you don't have to be the loudest person in the room.\n\nHow to contribute without draining yourself:\n\n* Pick your moments—don't feel pressure to comment on everything  \n* Share one well-thought-out point rather than multiple hasty ones  \n* Use phrases like \"I'd like to add...\" or \"Building on that idea...\"  \n* Email your thoughts to the meeting organizer ahead of time if you're uncomfortable speaking up  \n* Request agenda items you want to discuss so you can prepare\n\n### 8\\. Own Your Needs Without Apologizing\n\nPart of succeeding as an introvert is recognizing and advocating for what you need.\n\n#### Setting boundaries:\n\n* Tell your manager how you work best: \"I'm most effective when I have advance notice for presentations\"  \n* Protect your calendar: \"I block Friday afternoons for focused work\"  \n* Decline unnecessary meetings: \"I don't think I'll add value to this discussion, but please share the notes\"  \n* Communicate your recharge needs: \"I'm going to take lunch at my desk today to prepare for the afternoon meeting\"\n\n### 9\\. Choose the Right Roles and Companies\n\nWhile introverts can succeed anywhere, some environments and positions naturally align better with your strengths.\n\n#### Roles where introverts often excel:\n\n* Strategic roles requiring deep analysis and planning  \n* Research and development positions  \n* Writing and content creation  \n* Technical and engineering roles  \n* One-on-one coaching or consulting  \n* Project management (with thoughtful, proactive teams)\n\n#### Company cultures that value introverts:\n\n* Organizations that emphasize asynchronous communication  \n* Companies with flexible or [remote work](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fremote-work-essentials) policies  \n* Cultures that value deep work and focus time  \n* Teams that encourage written communication and documentation\n\n### 10\\. Build Confidence Through Self-Awareness\n\nConfidence comes from self-awareness and acceptance—not from pretending to be someone you're not.\n\nConfidence-building practices:\n\n* Read books like *Quiet* by Susan Cain to understand your introversion better  \n* Track your accomplishments to remind yourself of your value  \n* Find mentors who share your personality type  \n* Join or create support networks for introverts in your industry  \n* Celebrate wins that align with your strengths (landing a major deal through relationship building, producing exceptional written work, etc.)\n\n## When Introverted Leaders Excel (And When Extroverts Do)\n\nUnderstanding when your leadership style is most effective helps you position yourself strategically:\n\n#### Introverted leaders thrive when:\n\n* Teams are proactive and self-directed  \n* Deep strategic thinking is valued  \n* Employees need psychological safety to voice ideas  \n* Long-term planning trumps quick decisions  \n* Individual development is prioritized\n\n#### Extroverted leaders thrive when:\n\n* Teams need direction and activation  \n* Quick decision-making is essential  \n* High energy and motivation are required  \n* Crisis management demands immediate action  \n* Team-building and morale are priorities\n\nNeither is inherently better. The key is understanding your strengths and finding (or creating) environments where they shine.\n\nYour introversion is not something you need to overcome, fix, or apologize for. It's a different way of being in the world—one that brings tremendous value to any workplace.\n\nThe main difference between introverts and extroverts isn't work quality—it's the environment in which each type develops their talents most effectively.\n\nYes, you might need to step outside your comfort zone occasionally. An introvert might have to speak up more in meetings. An extrovert might need to pause and reflect before acting. We all adapt to our work environments to some degree.\n\nBut success doesn't require you to reject your personality. In fact, the most effective thing you can do is embrace your introversion and leverage it strategically.\n\nStop trying to become an extrovert. Start focusing on being the best version of your introverted self. That's where your real power lies.\n\n\n\n\n","how-can-an-introvert-succeed-in-the-workplace","introverts at work, how introverts can succeed, introvert leadership tips, how to thrive as an introvert at work","Introverts make great leaders. Discover research-backed strategies for introverts at work to succeed, lead teams effectively, and advance without changing who you are.",{"id":280,"name":281,"alternativeText":52,"caption":52,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":282,"hash":303,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":304,"url":305,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":306,"updatedAt":307},102,"introverts-at-work.jpg",{"large":283,"small":288,"medium":293,"thumbnail":298},{"ext":57,"url":284,"hash":285,"mime":60,"name":286,"path":62,"size":287,"width":64,"height":65},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_introverts_at_work_61058b973f.jpg","large_introverts_at_work_61058b973f","large_introverts-at-work.jpg",38.03,{"ext":57,"url":289,"hash":290,"mime":60,"name":291,"path":62,"size":292,"width":71,"height":72},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_introverts_at_work_61058b973f.jpg","small_introverts_at_work_61058b973f","small_introverts-at-work.jpg",12.38,{"ext":57,"url":294,"hash":295,"mime":60,"name":296,"path":62,"size":297,"width":78,"height":79},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_introverts_at_work_61058b973f.jpg","medium_introverts_at_work_61058b973f","medium_introverts-at-work.jpg",22.83,{"ext":57,"url":299,"hash":300,"mime":60,"name":301,"path":62,"size":302,"width":85,"height":86},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_introverts_at_work_61058b973f.jpg","thumbnail_introverts_at_work_61058b973f","thumbnail_introverts-at-work.jpg",4.44,"introverts_at_work_61058b973f",83.2,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fintroverts_at_work_61058b973f.jpg","2021-02-05T21:44:43.387Z","2021-02-05T21:44:43.407Z",{"id":6,"name":7,"slug":8,"createdAt":240,"updatedAt":241,"publishedAt":96},{"id":14,"name":310,"slug":311,"instagram":312,"facebook":313,"bio":314,"createdAt":315,"updatedAt":316,"publishedAt":317,"linkedIn":318,"avatar":319},"Amalia","amalia","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.instagram.com\u002Famalia.ka__\u002F","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.facebook.com\u002Famalia.kakampakou","Amalia is the Teacher. She loves what she does. She is addicted to detail: if it isn’t perfect, it’s not good enough. She loves her job and she loves writing. She wants to learn new things and she is very curious about everything. Her favorite question: Why? She usually answers the questions by herself, though.","2020-12-24T18:58:59.684Z","2020-12-27T14:58:33.474Z","2020-12-24T18:59:01.010Z","https:\u002F\u002Fwww.linkedin.com\u002Fin\u002Famalia-kakampakou-963945202\u002F",{"id":14,"name":320,"alternativeText":321,"caption":321,"width":110,"height":110,"formats":322,"hash":328,"ext":188,"mime":191,"size":329,"url":330,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":331,"updatedAt":332},"the working gal author.png","the working gal author",{"thumbnail":323},{"ext":188,"url":324,"hash":325,"mime":191,"name":326,"path":62,"size":327,"width":119,"height":119},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_amalia_fcd74699a4.png","thumbnail_amalia_fcd74699a4","thumbnail_amalia.png",57.6,"amalia_fcd74699a4",118.47,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Famalia_fcd74699a4.png","2020-12-24T18:58:30.657Z","2025-02-22T08:34:20.998Z","https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fintroverts_at_work_61058b973f.jpg",{"id":335,"title":336,"createdAt":337,"updatedAt":338,"publishedAt":339,"content":340,"slug":341,"coffees":14,"seo_title":336,"keywords":342,"seo_desc":343,"featuredImage":344,"category":373,"author":376,"img":380},48,"How to Set and Preserve Boundaries (Without Feeling Guilty)","2021-01-26T13:59:01.895Z","2025-12-13T22:34:14.747Z","2021-01-26T14:32:39.912Z","Have you ever found yourself feeling overwhelmed, resentful, or exhausted—without quite understanding why? You said yes to covering your colleague's shift again. You answered your mother's third call of the day even though you were in the middle of something. You [stayed late at work](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-avoid-late-nights-at-work) for the fifth time this month because someone \"really needed\" your help.\n\nIf this sounds familiar, the problem might not be that you're too busy or that people ask too much of you. The problem might be boundaries—specifically, that you haven't set them, or that you struggle to maintain them.\n\nBoundaries are essential to healthy relationships and a healthy life. They protect your time, your energy, your mental health, and your sense of self. But for many of us—especially women, who are often socialized to be accommodating—setting boundaries feels uncomfortable, selfish, or even impossible.\n\nIt's not. Boundary-setting is a skill, and like any skill, it can be learned. Here's how.\n\n## What Are Boundaries, Really?\n\nBoundaries are the limits we set to protect our well-being. They define what we're willing to accept and what we're not, what we'll tolerate and what crosses the line. As psychologist Dr. Dana Gionta explains, *\"Having healthy boundaries means knowing and understanding what your limits are.\"*\n\nThink of boundaries as the fence around your property. The fence doesn't mean you don't like your neighbors or that you're antisocial. It simply defines where your space ends and theirs begins. Without that fence, anyone could wander into your garden, help themselves to your things, or set up camp in your living room. With clear boundaries, you can be a good neighbor while still protecting what's yours.\n\nBoundaries aren't about controlling other people—you can't actually make anyone do anything. They're about defining what you will and won't accept, and what you'll do if those limits are crossed. The boundary isn't \"You can't call me after 9 PM.\" The boundary is \"I don't answer calls after 9 PM.\"\n\n## The Different Types of Boundaries\n\nBoundaries exist in multiple dimensions of our lives. Understanding the different types helps you identify where yours might need strengthening:\n\nPhysical boundaries involve your body and personal space. This includes who can touch you and how, how close people stand to you, and your need for physical privacy. Declining a hug from someone you're not comfortable with is setting a physical boundary. So is closing your office door [when you need to focus.](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F7-ways-to-improve-concentration-in-everything-you-do)\n\nEmotional boundaries protect your feelings and emotional energy. They involve taking responsibility for your own emotions while not taking responsibility for others'. An emotional boundary might be refusing to engage when someone tries to guilt-trip you, or declining to be someone's emotional dumping ground without reciprocity.\n\n[Time boundaries](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Frevenge-bedtime-procrastination) protect how you spend your hours and energy. They involve limits on how much time you give to others, when you're available, and what you prioritize. Not checking [work email on weekends](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fwork-during-weekend) is a time boundary. So is leaving a party when you're tired instead of staying because you feel obligated.\n\nMental boundaries relate to your thoughts, values, and opinions. They involve the right to have your own perspectives without needing to defend or explain them constantly. A mental boundary might be declining to debate politics with a relative who argues in bad faith, or refusing to justify your life choices to people who disapprove.\n\nMaterial boundaries involve your possessions and finances. They determine what you're willing to lend, give, or share. Saying no to lending money to a friend who never pays you back is a material boundary. So is not letting a roommate use your car without asking.\n\nDigital boundaries are increasingly important in our connected world. They involve your availability via technology, your privacy online, and [how much access you give people to your digital life](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Foversharing-social-media). Not sharing your location with everyone, silencing notifications after a certain hour, or declining to follow back everyone who follows you are all digital boundaries.\n\n## Why Setting Boundaries Feels So Hard\n\nIf boundaries are so important, why do so many of us struggle with them? There are several common reasons:\n\nWe weren't taught how. Many of us grew up in families where boundaries weren't modeled or respected. If your parents read your diary, walked into your room without knocking, or dismissed your feelings, you may not have learned that you're allowed to have limits—let alone how to set them.\n\nWe fear being seen as selfish. Women especially are socialized to be accommodating, nurturing, and self-sacrificing. Setting boundaries can feel like violating an unspoken rule about what \"good\" women do. The fear of being labeled selfish, difficult, or cold keeps many of us saying yes when we want to say no.\n\nWe're afraid of conflict. Boundaries sometimes lead to pushback, disappointment, or [conflict](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-avoid-conflicts-at-work-1). If you're conflict-averse, the discomfort of setting a boundary can feel worse than the discomfort of not having one—at least in the short term.\n\nWe feel guilty. Guilt is one of the biggest obstacles to boundary-setting. We feel guilty saying no to our parents, our friends, our colleagues, even strangers. We feel responsible for other people's feelings and reactions. We worry that setting a limit means we don't care.\n\n![boundaries-2.jpg](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fboundaries_2_45b14d264f.jpg)\n\nWe don't know what we need. Sometimes we struggle with boundaries because we genuinely don't know what our limits are. If you've spent years accommodating others, you may have lost touch with your own needs and preferences. You can't set boundaries around limits you haven't identified.\n\n## Signs Your Boundaries Need Work\n\nHow do you know if your boundaries need strengthening? Dr. Gionta identifies two key feelings as \"red flags\": discomfort and resentment. If you frequently feel either—especially at a level of 6 or higher on a scale of 1 to 10—it's worth examining whether a boundary is being crossed.\n\n*Other signs include:*\n\n* You frequently feel overwhelmed, drained, or burned out  \n* You say yes when [you want to say no](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002F50-ways-to-say-no-politely)  \n* You feel resentful toward people you're helping  \n* You feel taken advantage of or unappreciated  \n* You avoid certain people because interactions leave you depleted  \n* You feel like you're constantly putting others' needs before your own  \n* You feel guilty or anxious about having needs at all  \n* You've lost touch with what you actually want\n\nIf several of these resonate, it's time to start setting some boundaries.\n\n## How to Actually Set Boundaries\n\nStep 1: Identify your limits.   \nBefore you can communicate boundaries, you need to know what they are. Pay attention to situations that leave you feeling resentful, drained, or uncomfortable. What specifically bothers you? What would you need to feel better? Your feelings are data—they're telling you where your limits are being exceeded.\n\nStep 2: Decide what you will do.   \nRemember: boundaries are about your actions, not controlling others. Instead of \"My mother needs to stop calling me five times a day,\" think \"I will answer my mother's calls once per day and let the others go to voicemail.\" You can't control what others do; you can only control your response.\n\nStep 3: Communicate clearly and directly.   \nWhen you need to express a boundary to someone, be clear and direct. You don't need to over-explain or justify yourself. A simple statement of what you need is often enough. \"I'm not available for calls after 8 PM.\" \"I can't take on additional projects this month.\" \"I need you to ask before borrowing my things.\"\n\nStep 4: Follow through consistently.   \nA boundary you don't enforce isn't a boundary—it's a suggestion. If you've said you won't answer calls after 8 PM, don't answer calls after 8 PM. If you've said you can't take on [extra work](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Foverworked-and-underpaid), don't take on extra work. Inconsistency teaches people that your boundaries aren't real.\n\nStep 5: Start small.   \nIf boundary-setting is new to you, start with smaller, lower-stakes situations. Practice saying no to things that don't matter much before tackling the bigger issues. Building this skill gradually makes it easier to use when the stakes are higher.\n\n## What to Actually Say: Scripts for Common Situations\n\nOne of the hardest parts of boundary-setting is knowing what words to use. Here are some scripts for common situations:\n\n### Setting Boundaries At Work:\n\n*When asked to take on more than you can handle:* \"I'd like to help, but I'm at capacity with my current projects. If this is a priority, can we discuss what I should deprioritize to make room for it?\"\n\n*When interrupted during focused work:* \"I'm in the middle of something right now. Can we schedule time to discuss this later?\"\n\n*When contacted outside work hours:* \"I don't check work messages after 6 PM, but I'll respond first thing tomorrow morning.\"\n\n### Setting Boundaries With Family:\n\n*When receiving unsolicited advice or [criticism](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fcriticism-at-the-workplace-can-you-handle-it):* \"I appreciate that you care, but I'm not looking for advice on this right now.\"\n\n*When pressured to attend events:* \"I won't be able to make it this time, but I hope you have a wonderful time.\"\n\n*When asked intrusive questions:* \"I'd rather not discuss that\" or \"That's not something I'm comfortable sharing.\"\n\n### Setting Boundaries In Friendships:\n\n*When someone is venting excessively:* \"I want to support you, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed. Can we take a break from this topic for now?\"\n\n*When asked to lend money (again):* \"I'm not in a position to lend money right now.\"\n\n*When plans keep getting changed last-minute:* \"I've noticed our plans often change at the last minute. Going forward, I need us to commit to plans by \\[time\u002Fday\\], or I'll assume we're not meeting.\"\n\n### Setting Boundaries In Romantic Relationships:\n\n*When needing alone time:* \"I need some time to myself tonight to recharge. It's not about you—it's something I need to feel my best.\"\n\n*When a topic is off-limits:* \"I'm not willing to discuss \\[topic\\] in that way. If you'd like to talk about it calmly, I'm open to that, but I'll leave the conversation if it becomes \\[heated\u002Fcritical\u002Fetc.\\].\"\n\n## When People Push Back\n\nNot everyone will respect your boundaries immediately—especially if you haven't had them before. Some people will test them, push back, or try to guilt you into backing down. This is normal, and it doesn't mean your boundary is wrong.\n\nWhen someone pushes back, you don't need to argue, justify, or defend yourself at length. You can simply repeat your boundary calmly: \"I understand, but I'm not available after 8 PM.\" If they continue pushing, you can end the conversation: \"I've told you what I need. I'm not going to discuss this further.\"\n\nRemember that how someone reacts to your boundary tells you a lot about them. People who respect you will ultimately respect your limits—even if they're initially disappointed. People who consistently violate your boundaries after you've clearly communicated them are showing you that they don't respect your needs. That's important information.\n\nAlso remember: you're allowed to set boundaries even if other people don't like them. Their discomfort with your boundary doesn't mean your boundary is wrong. You're not responsible for managing their reaction.\n\n## Boundaries Are Self-Care\n\nSetting boundaries isn't selfish—it's essential self-care. Research consistently shows that poor boundaries are associated with higher rates of burnout, anxiety, and depression. Conversely, people with healthy boundaries report higher self-esteem, better relationships, and improved mental health.\n\nWhen you protect your time, energy, and emotional well-being, you have more to give to the things and people that actually matter to you. You show up as a better friend, partner, colleague, and family member because you're not running on empty. Boundaries don't diminish your relationships—they protect them.\n\nAnd here's something important: boundaries aren't just a sign of a healthy relationship. They're a sign of self-respect. By setting limits, you're telling yourself that your needs matter, that your time has value, that you're worth protecting. That message is as important for you to hear as it is for anyone else.\n\n## Give Yourself Permission\n\nIf you've struggled with boundaries, you might be waiting for permission to set them. Here it is: You are allowed to have limits. You are allowed to say no. You are allowed to put your needs on the list—not last, but somewhere in the middle at least.\n\nYou're allowed to not answer every call, not accept every invitation, not take on every task. You're allowed to leave parties early, decline to [engage in arguments](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fhow-to-argue), and protect your peace. You're allowed to change your mind, to decide something no longer works for you, to grow into new boundaries as your life changes.\n\nSetting boundaries will feel uncomfortable at first, especially if you're not used to it. You'll probably feel guilty. Some people might be disappointed or upset. These feelings don't mean you're doing something wrong—they're just part of learning a new skill.\n\n![boundaries-3.jpg](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fboundaries_3_c27ad31f67.jpg)\n\nStart small. Practice. Be patient with yourself. And remember: every time you set and maintain a boundary, you're building a life that reflects what you actually need—not just what everyone else wants from you.\n\n## Frequently Asked Questions\n\n### How do I set boundaries without feeling guilty?\n\nGuilt is normal when you first start setting boundaries, especially if you've been a people-pleaser. Remind yourself that boundaries are necessary for healthy relationships, not a sign of selfishness. Start with small boundaries to build confidence. Over time, as you experience the benefits of having limits, the guilt typically diminishes.\n\n### What if someone doesn't respect my boundaries?\n\nFirst, make sure you've communicated your boundary clearly. If someone continues to violate your boundary after you've clearly stated it, you need to follow through with consequences—this might mean ending conversations, limiting contact, or in serious cases, reconsidering the relationship. A boundary without consequences is just a suggestion.\n\n### How do I set boundaries with family members?\n\nFamily boundaries are often the hardest because of long-established dynamics and expectations. Be clear and direct, but choose your timing. You don't need to justify your boundaries extensively—a simple statement of what you need is enough. Expect some pushback initially, and stay consistent. It may take time for family members to adjust to your new limits.\n\n### Is it okay to have different boundaries with different people?\n\nAbsolutely. Your boundaries will naturally differ based on the relationship, the level of trust, and the context. You might share personal information with close friends that you wouldn't share with colleagues. You might have stricter time boundaries with acquaintances than with your partner. Tailoring your boundaries to different relationships is healthy and appropriate.\n\n### What's the difference between a boundary and an ultimatum?\n\nA boundary is about your own behavior—what you will or won't accept and what you'll do in response. An ultimatum is an attempt to control someone else's behavior through threats. \"I won't answer calls after 9 PM\" is a boundary. \"If you call me after 9 PM, we're done\" is closer to an ultimatum. Boundaries focus on your actions; ultimatums focus on the other person's.\n\n### Can boundaries change over time?\n\nYes, and they should. Your boundaries will evolve as your life circumstances, relationships, and needs change. A boundary that was important five years ago might not be relevant now, and new boundaries might become necessary. Regularly checking in with yourself about what you need is part of maintaining healthy boundaries throughout your life.\n\n### How do I know if my boundaries are too rigid or too loose?\n\nBoundaries that are too rigid might prevent intimacy—you might feel isolated or have difficulty letting people in. Boundaries that are too loose leave you feeling depleted, resentful, or taken advantage of. Healthy boundaries are flexible: you can adjust them based on context and relationship while still protecting your core needs.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n","how-to-set-and-preserve-boundaries","how to set boundaries, setting healthy boundaries, boundary setting, boundaries in relationships, work boundaries, how to say no, maintaining boundaries, personal boundaries","Struggling to set boundaries? Learn how to identify your limits, communicate them clearly, and handle pushback—with scripts for work, family, and relationships.",{"id":345,"name":346,"alternativeText":52,"caption":52,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":347,"hash":368,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":369,"url":370,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":371,"updatedAt":372},95,"set-boundaries.jpg",{"large":348,"small":353,"medium":358,"thumbnail":363},{"ext":57,"url":349,"hash":350,"mime":60,"name":351,"path":62,"size":352,"width":64,"height":65},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_set_boundaries_04931f9f69.jpg","large_set_boundaries_04931f9f69","large_set-boundaries.jpg",27.1,{"ext":57,"url":354,"hash":355,"mime":60,"name":356,"path":62,"size":357,"width":71,"height":72},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_set_boundaries_04931f9f69.jpg","small_set_boundaries_04931f9f69","small_set-boundaries.jpg",8.96,{"ext":57,"url":359,"hash":360,"mime":60,"name":361,"path":62,"size":362,"width":78,"height":79},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_set_boundaries_04931f9f69.jpg","medium_set_boundaries_04931f9f69","medium_set-boundaries.jpg",16.58,{"ext":57,"url":364,"hash":365,"mime":60,"name":366,"path":62,"size":367,"width":85,"height":86},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_set_boundaries_04931f9f69.jpg","thumbnail_set_boundaries_04931f9f69","thumbnail_set-boundaries.jpg",3.37,"set_boundaries_04931f9f69",59.59,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fset_boundaries_04931f9f69.jpg","2021-01-26T13:45:13.155Z","2021-01-26T13:45:13.185Z",{"id":26,"name":27,"slug":28,"createdAt":374,"updatedAt":375,"publishedAt":96},"2020-12-24T19:15:46.057Z","2025-10-01T19:50:39.801Z",{"id":6,"name":243,"slug":244,"instagram":245,"facebook":246,"bio":247,"createdAt":248,"updatedAt":249,"publishedAt":250,"linkedIn":251,"avatar":377},{"id":253,"name":254,"alternativeText":255,"caption":256,"width":110,"height":110,"formats":378,"hash":264,"ext":188,"mime":191,"size":265,"url":266,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":267,"updatedAt":267},{"thumbnail":379},{"ext":188,"url":259,"hash":260,"mime":191,"name":261,"path":62,"size":262,"width":119,"height":119,"sizeInBytes":263},"https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fset_boundaries_04931f9f69.jpg",{"id":382,"title":383,"createdAt":384,"updatedAt":385,"publishedAt":386,"content":387,"slug":388,"coffees":14,"seo_title":383,"keywords":389,"seo_desc":390,"featuredImage":391,"category":420,"author":421,"img":425},47,"How Reality TV Portrays Women: The Harmful Stereotypes We've Normalized (And Why It Matters)","2021-01-16T10:00:51.280Z","2025-10-25T19:47:11.114Z","2021-01-16T10:00:53.753Z","Reality television is everywhere. Turn on your TV any night of the week and you'll find women competing for love on *The Bachelor*, battling the elements on *Survivor*, getting critiqued by judges on *America's Next Top Model*, or navigating drama on *The Real Housewives*. These shows are massively popular—[40% of Americans watch reality TV regularly](https:\u002F\u002Felectroiq.com\u002Fstats\u002Freality-tv-statistics\u002F), with women aged 18-34 making up the primary demographic.\n\nWe tell ourselves it's harmless entertainment. Just something fun to watch after a long day at work. But if we look more closely at what reality shows actually show, we'll see that their messages aren't as innocent as they seem.\n\nThe uncomfortable truth? Reality TV perpetuates harmful stereotypes about women—and we've become so used to seeing them that we barely notice anymore.\n\n## Why Reality TV's Portrayal of Women Matters\n\nBefore you dismiss this as overthinking entertainment, consider this: Psychologists confirm that we learn behavior through our experiences and the images we encounter in everyday life. For millions of young people, reality TV has become part of that everyday experience.\n\n[Research published in *Frontiers in Sociology*](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.frontiersin.org\u002Fjournals\u002Fsociology\u002Farticles\u002F10.3389\u002Ffsoc.2021.641216\u002Ffull) found that reality dating shows like *Love Island* perpetuate sexist attitudes toward women by presenting female contestants as overly emotional, irrational, and defined primarily by their desirability to men. Another study in *Politics, Groups, and Identities* determined that television \"has the potential to be used to increase political tolerance, and eliminate racism, sexism, and heterosexism\"—but only when it chooses to do so.\n\nThe problem? Most reality TV is choosing to do the opposite.\n\n## The Stereotypes Reality TV Perpetuates About Women\n\n### 1\\. Women as Objects of Desire (and Nothing More)\n\nAccording to the prevailing standards in reality television, women must be \"hot, always well-groomed, an object of desire.\" Their beauty and charm are positioned as the primary—often *only*—elements that will help them succeed.\n\nIn fashion reality shows like *America's Next Top Model* or *Project Runway*, women are treated as objects to be critiqued and judged. Judges comment on contestants' appearances as if they're not even present in the room, anxiously waiting for verdicts. We're told the fashion world is \"tough,\" but how is it different from other professions? Why is degrading treatment considered acceptable here when it wouldn't be tolerated in a corporate boardroom?\n\nIn dating shows like *The Bachelor* or *Love Island*, contestants are always perfectly groomed with flawless hair and makeup, projecting an image that's impossibly far from reality. Research shows that these programs reinforce a false idea: that a woman's primary value lies in her physical appearance and her ability to attract male attention.\n\nThis objectification teaches young viewers that women's worth is primarily visual—a message that has real-world consequences for how women are perceived and treated in professional and personal contexts.\n\n### 2\\. Women as Weak and Emotional (The \"Hysterical\" Stereotype)\n\nIn survival and competition shows like *Survivor*, women are often portrayed as the weakest players from the start. They're assumed to be fragile, unable to withstand pressure, and likely to crack under stress. Male contestants often prefer them as opponents *because* they're viewed as easier to beat.\n\nYes, men and women have different average physical capabilities. But why does the devaluation exist from the beginning? Why is beauty positioned as a woman's only viable path to victory, rather than strength, strategy, or intelligence?\n\nStudies on shows like *Love Island* reveal how female contestants' emotions are deliberately manipulated and exploited to attract viewers. Women are shown crying, fighting, or being \"paranoid\" about relationships—and these moments are presented as entertainment rather than as human experiences. This \"money shot\" editing, as researchers call it, reinforces outdated stereotypes about women's emotional instability and irrationality.\n\nThe consequence? When women in real life express legitimate concerns or emotions, they risk being labeled as \"crazy,\" \"dramatic,\" or \"too emotional\"—dismissals that have their roots in these persistent stereotypes.\n\n### 3\\. Women in Competition (With Each Other, Always)\n\nOne of the most insidious patterns in reality TV is how women are constantly pitted against each other—for men's affection, for judges' approval, for social dominance, for survival.\n\n*The Bachelor* franchise literally structures itself around 25-30 women competing for one man's attention. *The Real Housewives* thrives on female conflict and drama. Even professional competition shows like *Project Runway* amplify tensions between female contestants to create \"compelling\" television.\n\nResearch published on women's portrayal in reality TV notes that these shows teach young viewers—especially young women—that other women are their competition, not their allies. This perpetuates internalized misogyny: the belief that women can't trust each other, that female friendships are inherently drama-filled, and that women must compete for male approval and validation.\n\nThe real-world impact? Women who grow up consuming this media often struggle to build supportive female friendships and professional networks, believing competition rather than collaboration is the natural state of women's relationships.\n\n## The Specific Problems with Different Types of Reality Shows\n\n### Dating Shows: Distorted Images of Love and Relationships\n\nShows like *The Bachelor*, *Love Is Blind*, *Too Hot to Handle*, and *Married at First Sight* claim to help people find \"true love.\" In reality, they present a deeply distorted vision of relationships where:\n\n* Women must compete for male attention rather than being recognized as worthy partners in their own right  \n* Physical appearance is paramount \\- contestants are always camera-ready, reinforcing impossible beauty standards  \n* Emotional vulnerability is exploited for drama and ratings rather than treated with respect  \n* Traditional gender roles are reinforced \\- men as choosers, women as chosen\n\nA 2021 study analyzing *Love Island* found that the show demonstrates a sexual double standard: male contestants are celebrated for sexual prowess, while female contestants are shamed and deemed \"unruly\" for the same behavior. Women who are confident about their sexuality are labeled as \"too much\" or problematic.\n\n### Competition Shows: Women Judged More Harshly\n\nOn competition reality shows—from *Survivor* to *The Amazing Race* to *Hell's Kitchen*—research shows that [women face different standards than men](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fdo-people-love-to-hate-women-online):\n\n* Strong women are labeled as \"aggressive\" or \"mean\" while men displaying identical behavior are called \"assertive\" or \"strategic\"  \n* Women's competence is questioned more frequently  \n* Physical challenges emphasize perceived female weakness rather than different types of strength  \n* Women who display ambition are often edited to appear villainous\n\n### The Representation Problem Gets Worse for Women of Color\n\nThe stereotyping in reality TV is compounded for Black women, Latina women, and Asian American women, who face both gender-based and race-based stereotypes.\n\n![women-reality-shows.jpg](https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fwomen_reality_shows_9b2d5094fb.jpg)\n\nResearch shows that Black women in particular are often portrayed through the \"angry Black woman\" stereotype—shown as aggressive, irrational, and confrontational. According to *Pacific Standard Magazine*, when Black women appear on dating shows, they're often tokenized—included to meet a diversity quota rather than given genuine opportunities.\n\nA study analyzing *The Bachelor* found that in over 22 seasons, representation of women of color was severely limited, with some seasons featuring only one or two non-white contestants among 25-30 participants.\n\n## Why We Keep Watching (And Why That's Complicated)\n\nIf reality TV is so problematic, why do so many smart, [feminist women](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fwhy-we-need-feminism)—myself included—watch it?\n\nThe answer is complicated. As University of Michigan researcher Enrica Bridgewater explains, \"People who want equality for women can watch reality TV. You can dissect the things you like and the things you think are problematic.\"\n\n[Reality TV can be a guilty pleasure](https:\u002F\u002Fwww.workingal.com\u002Farticles\u002Fguilty-pleasure-the-shows-we-love-but-will-never-admit-to-anyone), a form of escapism, a way to decompress after work. The issue isn't individual viewers—it's the systemic patterns these shows create and reinforce.\n\nYou can watch reality TV and be a feminist. But we need to watch critically, recognizing the harmful tropes and calling them out rather than accepting them as normal.\n\n## The Dangerous Normalization\n\nThe worst part isn't that these stereotypes exist—it's that we see them so often that we consider them normal.\n\nWhen judges on fashion shows treat models with disgrace, we think \"well, the fashion industry is tough.\" When dating show contestants are shown crying and fighting over a man, we think \"well, that's just good drama.\" When women on competition shows are eliminated first, we think \"well, women are physically weaker.\"\n\nWe've normalized the dehumanization.\n\nAnd this normalization has consequences. When children and teenagers watch these shows—and they do—they internalize these messages about how women are and should be. Young men learn that the patriarchy's lessons are correct. Young women learn that finding a successful man and being traditionally beautiful are their highest aspirations.\n\n## Where the Responsibility Lies\n\nIt's tempting to blame the contestants, the producers, or the networks. But the reality is more complex.\n\nTelevision is a microcosm of society. If society allows the reproduction of these stereotypes, it's not just television that's perpetuating them—it's all of us.\n\n* Producers have a responsibility to create content that doesn't harm marginalized groups  \n* Networks have a responsibility to prioritize ethical programming over pure ratings  \n* Viewers have a responsibility to consume critically and demand better  \n* Advertisers have responsibility for what they financially support  \n* Society has a collective responsibility to reject sexist stereotypes wherever they appear\n\n## What We Can Do About It\n\nSo what's the solution? Should we boycott reality TV entirely?\n\nNot necessarily. But here's what we can do:\n\n**1\\. Watch Critically.** Notice when stereotypes appear. Question why women are portrayed certain ways. Call it out in conversations with friends and family.\n\n**2\\. Demand Better.** Support shows that present complex, multidimensional women. Use social media to praise good representation and criticize harmful portrayals.\n\n**3\\. Educate Young Viewers.** If children in your life watch reality TV, talk with them about what they're seeing. Help them develop critical thinking skills about media representation.\n\n**4\\. Choose Our Entertainment Thoughtfully.** We vote with our viewership. When shows treat women with respect and complexity, watch them. When they don't, turn them off.\n\n**5\\. Create Counter-Narratives.** Share stories and content that show the real diversity and complexity of women's experiences.\n\nReality TV isn't going to change until we change. Until we stop accepting these stereotypes as entertainment. Until we stop laughing at sexist \"humor.\" Until we demand that women on our screens be treated with the same respect, complexity, and humanity as men.\n\nTelevision reflects society—but it also shapes it. The images we consume influence how we see ourselves and others. When we allow women to be degraded, objectified, and stereotyped on reality TV, we're allowing those same attitudes to persist in boardrooms, classrooms, and our daily lives.\n\nThe next time you see a woman being treated poorly on a reality show, don't just accept it as entertainment. Recognize it for what it is: the reinforcement of harmful stereotypes that have real consequences for real women.\n\nWe all have a responsibility here. The question is: what will we do with it?\n\n\n","stereotype-women-in-reality-tv","reality TV stereotypes women, how reality TV portrays women, sexism in reality shows, dating shows stereotypes, gender stereotypes in reality television, Bachelor stereotypes women, Love Island sexism","From The Bachelor to Survivor, reality TV stereotypes harm women. Discover how dating shows & competition series perpetuate sexism—and what we can do about it.",{"id":392,"name":393,"alternativeText":52,"caption":52,"width":53,"height":54,"formats":394,"hash":415,"ext":57,"mime":60,"size":416,"url":417,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":418,"updatedAt":419},93,"woman-in-reality-TV.jpg",{"large":395,"small":400,"medium":405,"thumbnail":410},{"ext":57,"url":396,"hash":397,"mime":60,"name":398,"path":62,"size":399,"width":64,"height":65},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Flarge_woman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363.jpg","large_woman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363","large_woman-in-reality-TV.jpg",58.66,{"ext":57,"url":401,"hash":402,"mime":60,"name":403,"path":62,"size":404,"width":71,"height":72},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fsmall_woman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363.jpg","small_woman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363","small_woman-in-reality-TV.jpg",17.33,{"ext":57,"url":406,"hash":407,"mime":60,"name":408,"path":62,"size":409,"width":78,"height":79},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fmedium_woman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363.jpg","medium_woman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363","medium_woman-in-reality-TV.jpg",33.99,{"ext":57,"url":411,"hash":412,"mime":60,"name":413,"path":62,"size":414,"width":85,"height":86},"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fthumbnail_woman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363.jpg","thumbnail_woman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363","thumbnail_woman-in-reality-TV.jpg",5.21,"woman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363",135.22,"https:\u002F\u002Fworkingal.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com\u002Fwoman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363.jpg","2021-01-16T09:51:37.482Z","2021-01-16T09:51:37.500Z",{"id":22,"name":23,"slug":24,"createdAt":171,"updatedAt":172,"publishedAt":96},{"id":14,"name":310,"slug":311,"instagram":312,"facebook":313,"bio":314,"createdAt":315,"updatedAt":316,"publishedAt":317,"linkedIn":318,"avatar":422},{"id":14,"name":320,"alternativeText":321,"caption":321,"width":110,"height":110,"formats":423,"hash":328,"ext":188,"mime":191,"size":329,"url":330,"previewUrl":62,"provider":90,"provider_metadata":62,"createdAt":331,"updatedAt":332},{"thumbnail":424},{"ext":188,"url":324,"hash":325,"mime":191,"name":326,"path":62,"size":327,"width":119,"height":119},"https:\u002F\u002Fmedia.workingal.com\u002Fwoman_in_reality_TV_c9eecd8363.jpg",{"pagination":427},{"start":428,"limit":429,"total":430},0,5,46]