In a society increasingly driven by individualism and self-promotion, a silent revolution is bubbling under the surface. Women are rediscovering the value of traditional roles, subtly pushing back against the prevailing feminist narrative that emphasizes career over motherhood. This movement, often referred to as “going trad,” represents a return to foundational values that prioritize family and home life.
Suzanne Venker, a women’s life and relationship coach and host of the *Suzanne Venker Show*, recently addressed this phenomenon at the Turning Point USA Young Women’s Leadership Summit. Venker argues that the cultural push for women to focus on careers at the expense of motherhood originates from decades of feminist influence. This feminist shift, according to Venker, has accelerated over the past two decades, fueled by the rise of social media and rapid technological advancements.
Venker observes that contemporary society places a disproportionate value on individualism, often at the expense of community and family. This focus on self-fulfillment has led to the marginalization of sacrifice—a concept deemed old-fashioned but essential for family cohesion. Venker insists that the needs of children, just as urgent today as they were fifty years ago, demand that parents prioritize their wellbeing over individual ambitions. The essence of family life, she emphasizes, should remain static despite societal changes.
The resurgence in traditional lifestyles can be seen as a direct counteraction to modern feminist principles. Venker supports this movement, highlighting the benefits of homeschooling, self-sufficiency, and greater parental presence in the home. She acknowledges that this trend is a natural pendulum swing reacting to extreme individualism.
However, Venker advocates for a balanced approach. While endorsing homeschooling and agrarian lifestyles as beneficial choices, she cautions that they may not be practical or desirable for all women. Venker envisions a future where women can integrate their professional aspirations with their responsibilities to their families. This middle ground, she argues, will allow women to lead independent lives without compromising the needs of their children.
Venker’s insights resonate in a cultural landscape where many feel the pressures of conforming to ideals that don’t align with their values. By embracing a return to traditional roles, women are not only challenging the status quo but also fortifying the foundational units of society. This shift underscores a broader reevaluation of what it means to lead a fulfilled life, prioritizing family and community in a world increasingly geared toward self-interest.
As the dialogue on women’s roles continues, the reevaluation of maternal and familial priorities could shape future societal norms. This discourse not only rejuvenates traditional values but also offers a modern interpretation that allows for a harmonious blend of career and family life, reflecting a deep-seated desire for a more balanced and rooted existence.
