“Society cares more about a woman being married than about her being happy in the marriage.”
This isn’t just a quote—it’s the unspoken truth echoing through countless households, whispered between tears, and etched into the silent resignation of many women.
In many parts of the world, especially in traditional societies like ours, a woman’s worth is still tied to her marital status. A wedding isn’t just a personal milestone—it’s a societal expectation. Families push for it, communities celebrate it, and culture glorifies it. But rarely do we pause to ask: Is she happy in the marriage?
The Glorification of the ‘Mrs.’ Title
From a young age, girls are subtly (and often directly) told that marriage is the ultimate goal. Career, education, dreams—all are seen as temporary stops on the way to the ‘final destination’ of becoming someone’s wife. The moment a woman crosses a certain age, the pressure intensifies. If she’s not married, she’s questioned, pitied, or even judged. But if she is married—even if unhappily—she’s deemed “settled.”
Why is being “settled” more important than being safe, respected, or fulfilled?
The Price of Silence
Many women endure emotional neglect, disrespect, or even abuse because the fear of social stigma is greater than the pain of staying. They’re told to “adjust,” “compromise,” and “save the family’s honor.” Seeking divorce or even talking about their struggles is taboo. The societal concern is often: “What will people say?” instead of “What is she going through?”
This silence is not peaceful. It’s suffocating.
The Role of Family and Society
Parents proudly organize grand weddings but fail to check in on their daughter’s emotional well-being after she’s married. Society cheers the ‘perfect couple’ for social media but doesn’t see the woman crying herself to sleep. The hypocrisy is staggering—and dangerous.
We need to change this narrative.
Marriage is Not the Goal. Happiness Is.
At SheLit, we believe a woman’s life shouldn’t be defined by her marital status. It should be defined by her voice, her choices, and her well-being.
Marriage, at its best, is a beautiful partnership. But it should never come at the cost of dignity or joy. A woman has every right to walk out of a marriage that hurts her, just as she has every right to stay in one that empowers her.
What Needs to Change?
- Conversations at home: Ask daughters about their dreams, not just their wedding plans.
- Support systems: Encourage women to speak up without fear of judgment.
- Redefine ‘settled’: A woman living on her terms is settled—even without a ring on her finger.
- Raise boys better: Teach them respect, partnership, and emotional intelligence.
To every woman reading this:
You deserve more than just being someone’s wife.
You deserve to be heard. To be seen. To be happy.
Let’s not just talk about marriage. Let’s talk about her happiness within it.
SheLit