To all you girls who dream,
I am sure you wake up every morning feeling hopeful and optimistic about the day ahead, excited about the opportunities it holds for you. You think of accomplishing your multiple tasks and moving a step closer to your goals.
But wait. You woke up today only to realise that it’s ‘that time of the month’. So you decided to ditch your plans and retreated back into your cocoon. Why would you do that? Why would you still not want to put in that extra? Why would you give up on your dreams? Is it simply because of your periods?
I have chosen this day to write to you because today is World Menstruation Hygiene Day. Today everyone talks about the importance of adhering to menstrual hygiene practices. It is also important to know how good menstrual hygiene practices also play a huge part in enabling us (girls) to reach our full potential and achieve our dreams no matter what time of the month it might be.
There will be many obstacles in the pursuit of your dreams. I had long hours of training, balancing studies and badminton. In my early years, I would travel 56 km from home to the training institute and back every single day.
It used to be tiring mentally and physically, especially during my periods. All these could have had led to so many missed opportunities, if not for my mother’s unwavering support and my strong dream to excel.
Let me share a secret with you. When I got my first period I was staying at the badminton training academy. I just borrowed a sanitary pad from my senior to get through the long hours of practice.
I did not want anything coming in the way of my dreams, least of all something as normal as periods. It is little things such as this that help you get closer to your dreams. So when you are chasing big goals, going that extra mile every day is crucial.
Today, I have just one personal message for you girls – DREAM ON and I would only wish wholeheartedly that nothing comes in between you and your dreams, not even periods.
Don’t let periods be an excuse. My period days didn’t make me falter, they made me more determined to pursue my dreams. Your dreams are what define your individuality. They have the power to give you wings and make you fly high. Let these words reverberate every time you think of holding back during periods.
Go on and follow your #DreamsOfProgress!