Be Yourself

Be Yourself
Photo by Julia Raasch / Unsplash

I remember seeing this commercial several years ago and thought that the message was strong and it left a lasting impact on me. So often we hear the phrase "like a girl" used in various contexts and like the video asks, at what point does that become an insult?  

  1. Who created this message? This message was created by Always, the feminine product line.

2. What creative techniques are used to attract my attention? The video starts by using humor to attract the attention of its viewers before it turns more serious. The video attempts to bring out feelings of guilt and empathy in its viewers as we see the people react the way they did initially to the questions and then quickly change the topic to empowering younger girls.

3, How might different people interpret this message differently than me? Depending on the audience, some people may interpret this message in their own ways. Based on age, gender, and even upbringing, some people may have their own opinions. Like the young boy in the video for example, he quickly said he wasn't insulting his sister but then realized that what he was doing was an insult to girls. Perhaps he thought highly of his own sister but fed into the stereotype of girls in general acting a certain way. I myself grew up in a family with many strong females and saw success and independence as a common achievement for women and believed I too could be like them someday.

4. What viewpoints or world views are included or left out of this message? I think the viewpoint that is included in this video is that confidence is key and it is important to just be yourself, however and whatever that looks like. The world view of girls somehow being weak, silly, or not enough is targeted as well as making a movement to change that stereotype.

5. Why is this message being sent? This message is being sent because girls need positive role models and messages in the world showing them that they are worthy and capable. Bringing confidence and empowerment to girls and women can have a lasting and great impact.