Against the grain

Throughout life we are told what to do, how to think, what to wear, etc. We are assumed rules and standards on how to act or behave based on certain factors such as age, religion or gender. When we become old enough to make decisions for ourselves, we often find ourselves trying to please others. A woman applying for a job in the stock market may find themselves trying to act more aggressive, speak lower, or dress more masculine based off the stock market environmental norm. The perception that only men can do certain things that woman can not do, can be a societal normality.

As children, it is possible you may have felt out of place; if you were a girl who played with cars or a boy who liked pink. It is okay to not be a cookie cutter of what appears to be he “norm”. To understand who you are without the expectations of others is a gift that only few have been able to experience. Being who you feel you are, without others telling you who to be, is a skill. However, it is also important to embrace yourself with love. Each person is a unique combination of nature and nurture, yielding the diverse world we live in. It is okay to break away from the norm and be outside the box. If you find yourself struggling to show your true colors it may be helpful to take small alternative routes. If you typically go left on the same route to work every day, change to the right. Try engaging in activities that enhance the comfort of your true self once you feel comfortable going against the grain. Being who you believe you are can open your life to more opportunities of happiness.

Check out this article on self-love and embracing the real you:

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/christina-zipperlen/8-steps-to-truly-love-you_b_7343172.html