Unique : "Being Yourself in a World That Wants You to Be Everything Else"
Word of the Week: Unique: "Being Yourself in a World That Wants You to Be Everything Else"
In personal terms, "unique" refers to the qualities, characteristics, or attributes that distinguish an individual from others. It's about embracing what makes you distinctly you—your talents, quirks, experiences, and perspectives that shape your identity.
Being Yourself in a World That Wants You to Be Everything Else
“I think it’s tricky to be oneself because we’re so influenced by our environment and the people close to us.”
That thought struck me recently—and it’s true, isn’t it? From the moment we’re born, we’re absorbing ideas about who we should be. Be polite. Be successful. Be helpful. Be quiet. Be nice. Be ambitious. Be this. Be that.
Somewhere along the way, we can lose sight of something precious: who we actually are.
Who Are You, Really?
It's not a simple question.
We’re all shaped by our families, cultures, schools, and social circles. These aren’t necessarily bad influences—but they can drown out our own voice if we’re not careful.
Being yourself isn’t about ignoring the people around you or rebelling for the sake of it. It’s about living in a way that’s true to you—your values, your passions, your quirks, your pace.
And that can be tough when the world keeps handing you a script and expecting you to stick to it.
Why It’s Hard to Be Ourselves
Let’s face it:
We want to fit in.
We want to be liked.
We want to make people proud.
We don’t want to disappoint anyone—or be rejected for showing up differently.
It’s natural to want connection. But when you’re constantly adjusting yourself to meet everyone else’s expectations, you start drifting away from your centre.
What Does ‘Being Yourself’ Really Mean?
It doesn’t mean having it all figured out. It doesn’t mean being loud, eccentric, or wildly different (unless you are—and then, go for it!). It simply means:
Knowing your values and standing by them.
Trusting your instincts.
Saying what you really think (kindly).
Doing what feels right for you, not just what’s expected.
Letting go of comparison.
Being okay with your version of life—even if it doesn’t look like anyone else’s.
How to Start Being Yourself (Even When It Feels Hard)
Here are a few gentle steps toward finding your own path:
1. Notice the Noise
Start asking: “Is this really me or just something I’ve been told?” The simple act of noticing can be powerful.
2. Spend Time Alone
Solitude helps you hear your own voice. Go for a walk, journal, sit in silence, or stare at the sky. No social media. Just you.
3. Stop Performing
You don’t need to be everything to everyone. Try showing up honestly, even in small ways. Let yourself be seen.
4. Explore What Lights You Up
Do something you secretly enjoy—even if it’s quirky, niche, or “uncool.” Often, your true self lives in those quiet passions.
5. Find the Right People
You don’t need a big crowd. Just a few people who accept you as you are, cheer for you, and don’t require you to shrink.
6. Be Okay with Not Fitting In
You won’t be everyone’s cup of tea—and that’s okay. You weren’t meant to blend in. You were meant to belong, and there’s a big difference.
7. Let Yourself Grow
Being yourself isn’t static. You’re allowed to evolve, to change your mind, to grow into new versions of you. That is authenticity.
The Takeaway
Being yourself is a lifelong journey—not a checkbox you tick once and forget about. Some days you’ll feel confident in who you are; other days, you’ll feel unsure. That’s normal.
But the more you tune into your own rhythm, the more peaceful and fulfilling life becomes.
So, here’s your gentle reminder:
You don’t have to be what everyone else expects. Just be honest, brave, and kind to the person you already are—because that person is enough.
🌟 Affirmation of the Week
“I honour who I am, even as I grow. I don’t need to fit in—I just need to show up as myself.”