I’ve always been called a “funny girl.” As far back as I can remember, I was described as funny. Some of my closest friends compare me to Jennifer Lawrence, Amy Poehler, and Carrie Bradshaw (portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker). Each of these women are bubbly blondes with amazing ambition. How could a person NOT want to be associated with such talent? I love when people say I remind them of successful, funny actresses. It truly is a compliment.
However, when I think of being a “funny girl,” I always think of Fanny Brice (Barbara Streisand in the musical Funny Girl). Being described as a funny girl has perks, for sure. Sometimes it can come with disadvantages, though. I’ve been described as “one of the guys” or “a real oddball, but funny as hell.” I was voted class clown for my senior superlatives in high school… I guess I really am a “funny girl.”
Funny girls, like myself, are unfortunately stuck with many predispositions. We won’t be taken seriously. We will be intimidating to men. We will be likable, but not datable. I think you get the point.
I don’t know how many times I have attempted a relationship with a man and he made it clear that I was “Cool, but not his type. Being friends is our fate.” That’s totally fine, because I’ve dated men who completely disagreed. It’s clear that “those” guys weren’t for me, anyway.
However, I noticed that those rejections throughout high school, college, and even now, negatively affected the opinion I had for myself. By this I mean, I often suppress my sense of humor or odd tendencies in the beginning of a relationship until I know he can handle it. Why?
Most guys I am attracted to are “funny guys.” They thrive in situations where they are perceived as the star of the show, for lack of a better description. Perhaps (and funny girls out there, please provide your input) I am attracted to the wrong type of person. Funny girls want a man who can keep up with us, but why should I feel I have to compete for the “funny” title?
Try not to misinterpret what I am saying. I don’t go to parties in hopes to be dubbed the funny girl. It kind of just happens based off of my mannerisms and comments on particular subjects. But, I have dated (or have attempted to date) men who dislike a girl who “steals the show.” New question to ponder: Is there room for two funny people in a relationship?
Many of you will say yes, I’m sure. “If you find the right guy, there is always a chance of becoming the funny couple.” Oh yeah, of course. Easier said than done, though. I’ve learned over the years that my sense of humor will do one of two things – Get me in trouble or help me gain new friends. My experience with men who are equally as outgoing/funny as I am, hasn’t been so great. So, for me, I do not think a man who is practically my male twin, would work. Opposites attract, right?
Instead of suppressing my humor, I want to embrace it. Instead of intimidating a man with my humor, I want him to step back and let me have the spotlight. You know… cheer me on. He should be proud that I can be feminine, “a guy’s girl,” and funny. I have no problem being the funny girl. I know I always will be, that’s for sure.
To my fellow funny gals, what are your experiences? I’d love to learn more about the advantages (or disadvantages) to being a funny girl in your eyes.
