Member-only story

Modern or modest?

Anna Umn
2 min readFeb 26, 2025

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Stuck somewhere in between.

Living in a South Asian country it’s very difficult to find a balance between being modern and being modest. As our culture is enriched with modest traditions and simplicity, it’s a constant war to embrace the ever- evolving trends.

Non-members can read here.

Photo by Dom Hill on Unsplash

The fast-paced world pulls me towards modernity- trendy outfits, bold opinions, and independent lifestyle. While the traditional girl inside me wants me to be modest.

I am stuck somewhere in between balancing societal expectations and personal comfort.

One day, I want to wear western outfits, feel confident, and keep up with the trends. The next day, I find myself diverted towards elegance of traditional wears, deeply attached to cultural roots.

I love making my own choices, being career driven, and embracing new-age empowerment. But then, the inner voice of me reminds me of my family traditions, respect for elders, and the pleasure of staying connected to values.

Photo by Ifrah Akhter on Unsplash

Social media forces me to share my life online- travel diaries, daily routines, and even what I ate in dinner. But my modest side urges, “Isn’t privacy a luxury?” Instagram posts and snapchat streaks want me to be present every time, but I also want to disappear into the comfort of my own space. Sometimes I wonder,

Does everything need an Instagram post?

Can I be a self-sufficient modern woman and a traditional-loving family girl at the same time?

Do I look weird while sipping coffee in a trendy cafe wearing a traditional outfit?

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Anna Umn
Anna Umn

Written by Anna Umn

Writer exploring life, wellness, and personal growth. Sharing insights and stories to inspire a mindful living

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