I often find myself saying, “I just want the audacity of men” – that unyielding self-assurance, the sheer nerve they have – it both baffles and intrigues me. I’ve spent countless moments pondering over it, wondering if audacity is an innate trait, etched into their DNA, or if there’s a secret handbook, they all seem to have read as boys.
Recently, I indulged in the emotional rollercoaster that is the movie ‘Fair Play’ on Netflix and boy, was it a ride. ‘Fair Play’ follows Emily, a young investment banker faced with an impossible choice: advance her career or maintain her relationship with her fiancé, who inconveniently happens to be her coworker. When she’s offered a promotion that places her in a position of authority over him, chaos ensues. Despite her qualifications outweighing his, he deluded himself into believing that he was more deserving, resorting to belittling her to inflate his fragile ego.
‘Fair Play’ is undoubtedly a cinematic masterpiece; the storytelling is brilliant, but oh, did it make my blood boil. Through every scene, I couldn’t help but marvel at men’s ability to navigate life with such confidence, even when they’re clearly in the wrong. How do they do it? Where do they get this audacity from, and why does it seem so effortless for them?
As I delved deeper into the movie, I reflected on the audacious moments I’ve encountered in my own life. Those times when a man interrupts a conversation, assuming his voice is the only one that matters. Or the instances of ‘mansplaining’ where I’m subjected to a condescending explanation of something I already understand. Then, there’s the gaslighting – manipulating me to question my own thoughts and reality. It’s these moments that leave me frustrated but oddly envious. How liberating it must be to navigate the world with such unshakable confidence, to never doubt the validity of your words or actions.
Yet, ‘Fair Play’ taught me a valuable lesson that audacity is not exclusive to men. It’s a quality we can all cultivate, irrespective of gender. It’s about owning our space, speaking our truth, and daring to be unapologetically ourselves. Perhaps, instead of wishing for the audacity of men, I should focus on embracing my own audacious spirit.
Audacity is a state of mind, a powerful force that, when used right, can propel us to unimaginable heights.
So, here’s to audacity – may we all have the courage to embrace it, flaunt it, and let it guide us in our journey through life.
