Navigating Societal Pressure and Family Expectations: A Guide for Pakistani Women Pursuing Higher Education

Navigating Societal Pressure and Family Expectations: A Guide for Pakistani Women Pursuing Higher Education

As I sit here, reflecting on my own journey, I am reminded of the countless Pakistani women who have had to fight tooth and nail for their right to education. I think of my friend, Ayesha, who was told by her family that she was too old to pursue a master's degree, that it was time for her to get married and settle down. But Ayesha was determined, and she proved to everyone that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.

The sad reality is that many Pakistani women face immense pressure from their families and society to prioritize marriage and family over education and career. The phrase "Log Kya Kahenge" (what will people say) is often used to guilt trip women into conforming to societal norms. But I'm here to tell you that it's time to break free from these expectations and forge your own path.

The Reality Check

You don't need a supportive husband or family to succeed, you need a plan. Many women are led to believe that they need a supportive partner or family to achieve their goals, but the truth is that you are capable of creating your own success. It's time to stop waiting for others to give you permission to pursue your dreams.

Unfortunately, the joint family system in Pakistan can sometimes be a hindrance to a woman's educational and career goals. With the rising inflation and increasing cost of living, many families expect their daughters to contribute to the household income, but they often don't provide them with the necessary support or resources to do so. For example, a woman may be expected to take care of her family's expenses, including paying off debts in Rupees (PKR) or even saving up for a wedding, all while trying to pursue her education.

Setting Boundaries

Learn to Say No

One of the most important things you can do to manage societal pressure and family expectations is to learn to say no. It's okay to set boundaries and prioritize your own needs and goals. Remember, you can't pour from an empty cup, so take care of yourself first.

Communicate Your Goals

Communicate your goals and aspirations with your family and friends. Be clear and direct about what you want to achieve, and explain how your education and career will benefit not just you, but also your family and community.

Seek Support

Seek out supportive networks, whether it's a group of friends, a mentor, or a professional organization. Having people who believe in you and your abilities can make all the difference in staying motivated and focused on your goals.

Meet Zara

Zara is a 28-year-old woman from Lahore who always dreamed of becoming a doctor. Despite her family's disapproval, she worked hard and secured a scholarship to study medicine. Today, she is a successful doctor, and her family is proud of her achievements. Zara's story is a testament to the fact that with determination and hard work, anything is possible.

Managing Finances

Create a Budget

Create a budget that works for you, not against you. Take into account your expenses, including tuition fees, living costs, and savings. Consider opening a separate account in PKR to keep your expenses organized.

Prioritize Needs Over Wants

Prioritize your needs over your wants. Be honest with yourself about what you need to survive and thrive, and cut back on unnecessary expenses. Remember, every rupee counts, especially when you're trying to save up for a big goal, like a master's degree or a professional certification.

💡 Quick Win

Take 10 minutes today to write down your short-term and long-term goals. Be specific and clear about what you want to achieve, and create a plan to make it happen. Don't worry too much about the how, just focus on the what. You can always adjust your plan later, but taking that first step is crucial to getting started.

As you embark on this journey, remember that you are not alone. There are countless Pakistani women who have overcome similar challenges and achieved great things. Draw inspiration from their stories, and don't be afraid to reach out for help when you need it. And most importantly, don't let anyone dim your light. You are capable, strong, and deserving of every opportunity that comes your way. So go out there and make it happen, one step at a time.