Yes there were chips and dip, yes there were hamburgers and hot dogs, and a fair share of desserts, it was a Super Bowl party after all! Like many of you, I’m sure, yesterday was all about getting together for the Super Bowl. If not for watching the game, at least for watching the commercials. One campaign that really stood out to me was the Always #likeagirl campaign.

Men and women of all ages were asked to describe what they think the phrase “like a girl” means. The results shown in the ad are troubling. Waving hands and flipping hair, the participants pretend to run “like a girl” and throw “like a girl.” Everyone except the young girls demonstrate that “like a girl” is often perceived as an insult. Yet the young girls who are asked act out strong, athletic and deliberate motions.

When did doing things “like a girl” become an insult? As the commercial states, female confidence plummets during the teenage years. But how have phrases like this become so common? I know I catch myself saying this all the time, “it’s OK to go on your knees if you need to, do girl push-ups.”

Expressions like this are degrading, and they are furthering the belief that women aren’t as strong as men.  Acting “like a girl” is not synonymous with weak, inferior, or silly.  Doing things “like a girl” should bring to mind power, beauty, and gracious determination. Young girls should grow up believing that they too can achieve their dreams. They too are also strong and bold.

Maybe they’ve been labeled girl push-ups for the longest time, but, hey, I challenge you to do one full minute of push-ups “likeagirl” and see how strong you feel! Let’s all try to empower the younger generation around us and inspire confidence in our individual strengths and abilities.

What other commercials stood out to you?

Have a great week,
Meryl

Featured Recipe

Cauliflower Rice

This rice substitution is so easy to make. It is low calorie, and gluten free. It can be eaten as a side alone or as a base for dishes like stir-fries and curries.

Ingredients:
1 head cauliflower
1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil

Wash, remove core and leaves, trim, and coarsely chop the cauliflower. Make sure the pieces are completely dry before placing into food processor.

In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat.

Meanwhile, place cauliflower pieces in a food processor and pulse until the cauliflower is small and has the texture of rice.

Raise the heat to medium-high. Add the prepared cauliflower to the pan. Cook 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cauliflower is slightly crispy on the outside but tender on the inside.

Season with salt and pepper.

Enjoy!