We constantly live our lives fighting a battle between who we really are and who we are supposed to be. We were taught that in order to be successful, we must belong and fit into this society. The truth is, when we deny our true identity, even if we achieve success and are accepted by the majority, we will fail. But when we rise and declare who we really are, facing our doubts, fears, criticism, and opposition courageously in the name of our highest ideals and values, and dare to be our true selves and live our purpose, nobody can ever limit or stop us. That is one of the keys to success.
One of the easiest ways to avoid criticism and opposition and be accepted is to remain on the side of the majority. This means saying what they say, doing what they do, and behaving as they behave. You lose your true self by refusing to be yourself and becoming the stereotype of perfection imposed by society. The weirdos, the crazy ones, the unconventional human beings—those who think differently, those who don’t fit in, those who dream big, those who are constantly looking to improve themselves and be better—are always marginalized and encounter violent opposition.
However, if you want to make an impact, become a revolutionary, change the world, or simply be yourself rather than the perfect stereotype imposed by society, you need to be willing to separate yourself from some people and be ready to face opposition. To push the human race forward, one must be willing to break the rules and refuse to accept the status quo. Evolution is the daily sum of revolutionary acts that challenge what is established and accepted by society, expanding human perspectives, horizons, and limitations and creating beliefs and ideas capable of changing the world for the better.
“Can you remember who you were, before the world told you who you should be?” – Danielle LaPorte
The question is: Are you willing to step aside from the majority in the name of your values and ideals and express your true self freely? If the answer is yes, are you then ready to face opposition, humiliation, and solitude? The journey to become the best version of yourself, your true self, and to create a better world for everyone is not easy, but it will be worth it in the end. Sometimes, you will find yourself walking alone, facing humiliation and opposition, and nobody will understand you. The temptation to give up and return to the “acceptance zone” will be strong. When this happens, don’t let your fears, doubts, or other people’s opinions distract you from your higher values, goals, and dreams.
The truth is, in this world, it is much easier to belong, to be accepted, and to be recognized as a member of the group of those who have been accepted by society. Nobody wants to be rejected; rejection is a strong feeling that few people can cope with. However, if we learn to love ourselves as we are and be confident in the person we truly are, we will walk our path in this life without fear of rejection. Once you accept yourself, you will never again feel the need to be accepted by others, and their opinions, thoughts, and criticism will never limit your ability to become the person you know you can be—your true self, your best version.
“Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.” – Mark Twain
Whether at school, university, work, or any other place, never feel ashamed of who you really are, and never fear the bullies. If you are different, shy, don’t follow trends, aren’t the smartest or the prettiest, aren’t the most popular or the funniest, if you have big and “impossible” dreams and goals, if your beliefs differ from what is accepted, and most of all, if you know you are being your authentic self, that is, the best version of yourself, the person capable of changing those around you and making this world a better place—if deep inside you know that what you are doing is the best you can do for yourself and others, do not be afraid to affirm and declare who you really are. Go confidently toward achieving personal growth and evolution, and with your example, change the world and open the eyes of those who cannot see that violence, hatred, intolerance, and ignorance will never bring us peace, love, or success!
Discover your true self, love, and accept who you are, regardless of whether you are accepted by others. Never cease to improve yourself, release your true potential, stay true to your values and ideals, do not let your soul and true self be corrupted by the fear of rejection, and with courage and confidence, go out, make your dreams a reality, make an impact, be the best version of yourself, and change the world!
