I’m a UP girl, through and through. The kind who can whip up a mean aloo ka paratha and can hold a conversation in Luckhnavi Nazakat while ordering a pizza. I've traded the bustling lanes of UP for the organized chaos of Pune, but some things just refuse to change like my uncanny ability to morph into an overbearing aunty at the drop of a hat.
It’s not that I want to be that person. I admire the independent women of today, the ones who can change a tyre, negotiate a salary, and still manage to look effortlessly chic. But somewhere between the '90s family dramas and the constant barrage of 'beta advice' from well-meaning relatives, I've developed a peculiar talent for unsolicited life guidance.
It starts innocently enough. A friend shares a picture of their new apartment, and before I know it, I’m mentally rearranging the furniture, suggesting Feng Shui principles, and offering tips on where to buy the cheapest curtains. And don't even get me started on food. Every meal is a potential health hazard, and I’m the self-appointed nutritionist, critiquing everyone's plate.
The worst part is, I catch myself doing it. There I am, standing in front of my perfectly capable, adult friends, dispensing wisdom like I'm hosting a TED Talk on life management. And then, a wave of embarrassment washes over me. I’m not their mother, their therapist, or their life coach. I’m just a friend who’s watched too many episodes of ‘Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’.
I’ve tried to curb this behaviour. I’ve taken up meditation to struggle with over-caring, joined a book club, and even started a blog (ironically, to share my thoughts). But the moment someone mentions their kid's exam or their partner’s career, the aunty comes out. It’s like a reflex, a conditioned response.
Maybe it's time to embrace my inner aunty. After all, there’s a reason why people come to me for advice. They know I care. But I also need to find a balance. To be there for my loved ones without smothering them. To offer advice without sounding like a know-it-all.
So, here’s to the accidental aunty in me. May I find the perfect blend of care and chill, of wisdom and wit. And may my friends continue to tolerate my unsolicited advice, even if it comes with a side of eye-rolling.
What about you? Do you have any 'traditional' traits you're trying to shake off?
This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon 2024
awesome
Haha, if you're accepting it then you don't need to worry. Most people are overbearing, not over-caring. You're doing good.
If you're able to critique yourself, I'm sure you are a cute aunty, not one that everyone runs away from but someone everyone wants to go to.
Sometimes, an accidental aunty can save someone's life. We never know!
Haha! You should be proud of yourself. You are so multi-talented 😁