This struck a chord with so many women…
Recently, I shared a reel that deeply resonated with so many women, and I wanted to make sure you had the chance to see it, too. The response was incredible, and it reminded me just how many of us are navigating the same challenges—balancing who we are with the expectations of those around us.
Here’s what I shared in the reel:
Every time I go home, it comes up. “You should cut your hair. It’s too long for a woman your age.”* It’s almost predictable at this point. And here’s the thing—my family is loving, they’ve always been there for me. I love them dearly. But even in the most supportive relationships, there’s this subtle push to fit in—to mold ourselves into what others think we should be.
We’ve all felt that, haven’t we? That tension between wanting to belong and feeling like we’re not quite enough—or maybe we’re too much in some way. And when that pressure shows up, it’s easy to swing in either direction: push back hard, rebel, or just give in and let them shape us. But neither path feels true. Either way, we lose a part of ourselves.
For me, it’s been about embodying myself. Reclaiming my voice, my choices—without needing to fight or conform. It’s taken time, but now, I feel deep in my core, and I ask, Who is Marla? What feels true to ‘me’? That’s where the power is. That’s where I stand rooted.
So no, I won’t cut my hair. I won’t soften my voice or hide my edges. This is me, exactly as I am, no longer apologizing for it. And honestly? There’s a freedom in standing here, fully in my truth.
It struck a chord because so many of us have felt that tension—of wanting to be accepted, but not wanting to lose ourselves in the process. If this speaks to you, I’d love for you to watch the reel HERE and let me know what comes up for you. Feel free to hit reply and share your own experience if it feels right.
We’re all on this journey of self-discovery together, and I’m sending you so much love as you continue standing in your truth.
