These labels don't fit.

You know how people say that it’s helpful to name something? When you’re feeling icky and you go to therapy and you’re able to label that feeling as “resentment” or “jealousy” or whatever it is… it’s helpful in processing those feelings.

But I’ve also noticed that society loves naming-slash-labeling women. And in turn, women love labeling themselves and other women. “I’m a stay-at-home mom. She’s a working mom. I’m a soccer mom. She’s a homeschool mom. I’m a work-from-home mom. She’s a mompreneur, etc. etc.” Maybe we’ve been conditioned to believe that unless we put a sticker on ourselves with a label that can be easily digested by the public, we won’t be seen or heard.

Are these labels really helpful? Or are they just caging us into unnecessary compartments, which come with a certain set of stereotypes and expectations? And pitting us up against each other?

Seriously, next time you’re scrolling on Twitter or IG, check out folks’ bio blurbs. Spot the labels and how they communicate limiting stereotypes. How can we present ourselves, both online and IRL without using labels that cage us, while effectively communicating who we are and what we do? (This is an earnest question because I honestly don’t know… I’m constantly revising my bio and would love some advice! Ping me if you have any thoughts.)

Here’s to living cage-free,

Sy

p.s. Our launch of our LINE Throws last week was a success and we sold out in 15 hrs.

p.p.s. We finally announced the launch date for our new Boysenberry colorway from our otherwise sold out BLOC collection of baby blankets. Set the reminder on IG to get a notification!

p.p.p.s. As a related tangent, the viral and surprisingly controversial picture of a computer desk at a public library in Virginia is something I am still trying to digest.  See the original tweet. Some lively comments here. This may require a deeper dive... stay tuned.