Be You (who else could you be?)!
One of the scariest things about starting a new school year, or starting a job, or joining any type of group, is wondering if you will fit in. We all want to fit in. And while “fitting in” is important, it is not as important as staying true to yourself. Being authentic is the polar opposite of people pleasing. And that can be a social no no.
When we are true to our nature, we are more relaxed in what we say and do. However, being authentic in light of trying to fit in, may open us up to being vulnerable and judged. When you are comfortable with yourself though, what others think of you is just not as important as being true to yourself.
E. E. Cummings said it this way: “To be nobody-but-yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody but yourself – means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight – and never stop fighting.” The pressure to fit in is everywhere but within. When we reflect inward, we know what to do and say according to our own values, beliefs, characteristics, and desires. Others opinions of you just do not hold the internal satisfaction as being true to your core.
Don’t try to be someone you are not. Be you. When you are authentic, and when you are more focused on your values than the judgement of others, you will live in peace.
May your path find you staying true to you!