First lets get something straight. I’m not talking about the stereotypical “bad girls” our moms used to warn us not to be friends with in high school. Those were the girls who were notorious for engaging in promiscuous activity, drugs, and defying all forms of society, we were taught not to be like them. 

I understand why that’s the first thing that pops into most peoples’ heads when the word “bad girls” is mentioned. In today’s society, stereotypical “bad girls” are everywhere. They dominate the music, fashion, and television industries, and their posters can be found in almost every teenage girls bedroom. There’s something intoxicating about the way that they defy and challenge everything young girls were taught to be, but they have taken it too far. 

Miley Cyrus is a perfect example. She lives life with an “I can do whatever I want because I can” attitude, and pushes the boundaries in order to make a statement and get attention. She doesn’t give a damn about her bad reputation. She knows what she wants, and won’t let anyone get in her way. She is daring and spontaneous, and not afraid to say what’s on her mind. But instead of using her potential to promote a strong positive female image we could look up to, she dry humps a giant wrecking ball or advertises smoking pot at one of her many concerts. In an attempt to prove “she can’t be tamed” Miley has pushed the limits and taken advantage of her fame in a negative way.

So what does it take to truly be a bad girl? I think it’s time to redefine what it means to be a bad girl in today’s society. A true bad girl should embrace all of the same go-getter qualities and characteristics as the stereotypical “bad girl”, but use their powers in a positive way to enhance their lives and the lives of others. They should strive to challenge the female population in a way that makes us want to be stronger, more independent, and achieve our wildest dreams. It’s time we ditch the stereotypical definition of a “bad girl” and change it to someone who oozes confidence and leadership while challenging the world in a positive way. 

Shailene Woodley is the ultimate bad girl. She speaks out about issues she believes in, and preaches the importance of movies that send empowering messages to women. She has made a name for herself without conforming to what society sees as “right for women”, without pushing the limits and still respecting herself. She values the importance of “loving ones soul rather than one’s body”, and even dares to speak out about not wearing any deodorant. She believes in living a drug free lifestyle and has proven to be a positive voice and role model for women of all ages. Now that’s badass! 

It’s time we stop idolizing these stereotypical “bad girls”, and start looking up to women who embrace all of those same qualities, but use them to send a positive message! That’s what being a true bad girl is all about.