Her life, her decisions: Empowering girls to make their own decisions

On 11 October, the United Nations declared "The International Day of the Girl Child" to celebrate the empowerment of girls, their rights, and equality. It is a meaningful occasion, reminding us to honour the struggles and journeys every girl faces in life. Yet sometimes it feels as if we observe this day simply because it has been declared, rather than truly reflecting on the freedom and respect girls deserve to make their own decisions. 

What is the real impact of this day, and how can we celebrate it as a true victory for equal rights? To make this day truly effective, it is crucial to teach girls to make their own decision, because it is their right. 

If a girl doesn't understand what is good or right for her, how can she understand her equal rights or know how to raise her voice against discrimination? It is important to first teach the difference between right or wrong, giving her the strength and confidence to make her own choices. By doing this, we can make the International Day of the Girl Child feel more personal and meaningful, a true celebration of victory for every girl child.

I have noticed that many rarely make their own decisions. From childhood to adulthood, they often depend on others—whether it's choosing a school, college, or university. Even after completing their education, when it comes to career or marriage, many still rely on their parents or others to decide for them.  

Of course, this is slowly changing. More girls today are self-aware and confident enough to make their own choices. However, the number of girls who truly take charge of their decisions is still low. One reason is that from early childhood, many girls are not encouraged to decide for themselves.

Often, parents or elders say things like, "You are too young to understand, you don't need to give opinions on this." And their voices are neglected.

Over time, this lack of practice and encouragement prevents decision-making skills from developing. Girls begin to feel they lack the strength or right to make choices, and a fear grows that even if they try, their decisions will be ignored. 

The cost of relying on others for life decisions

When girls are not allowed to make their own choices, it can lead to self-doubt and a loss of confidence. Whether a decision turns out right or wrong, making it on your own shows that you know yourself better than anyone else and understand what truly is right for you.

Taking advice from others is helpful, but depending entirely on someone else to make decisions for you is different. Many girls believe that if they let a more experienced person decide, the outcome will be best for them. 

However, this is not always true. When a decision made by someone else goes wrong, it can make life miserable. On the other hand, if you make your own decision and it doesn't go as planned, you usually feel less regret because it was your choice and your responsibility.

In many countries, parents teach children to be independent from an early age. Learning to make your decisions is the first step toward independence. Without this, other people may end up controlling your life instead of you being in control of it.

Decide for yourself

No one knows what's truly good or bad for you better than yourself. Start practicing decision-making with small things. Choose the food you like, the clothes you want to wear, the subjects you enjoy studying, or the books you want to read. By making these small choices, you learn more about yourself and develop the confidence to make bigger decisions.

These lessons are not always taught in schools, and sometimes you may not learn them at home, but you can teach yourself by taking small steps. Later, when it comes to important decisions about education, career, marriage, or life in general, you will already have the experience and confidence to decide for yourself.

Remember: other people's opinions may guide you, but they should never control your life. Your voice and choices matter the most. As the saying goes, "Making decisions for yourself is the first step toward true freedom."

Sometimes society makes us feel that we are too young or inexperienced to make the right decision for ourselves. But we should not let anyone manipulate us. It is important to understand what we truly want and have faith in ourselves. 

I have seen that when it comes to career choices, people often say, "This career is not right for you." But no one knows better than you which path suits you the best. Similarly, in matters of marriage, only you can know what is good for you and choose the right partner. It's wise to think carefully before making any decision, but ultimately, the choice should be yours.

The main purpose of this message is to show how decisions can shape our lives and why it is important to practice decision-making from small things to big ones. Make the best decision for yourself, not for others, even if they are your parents or loved ones.