In the modern world, we have been taught to conform to the standards of the society. There is nothing wrong with that, but there are times when you feel out of place, because you don’t quite fit into the mold that society has created. You may be different in ways that make people uncomfortable, but if you embrace your individuality, you will see that being different can make you better than other people, and give you opportunities that others may not be able to have.
Comparison Causes Struggle: We love to compare ourselves with others, whether it’s on social media or in real life. You see someone who is a few years younger than you, who has nicer hair / skin, or a better job, and then you start panicking. This can be an issue when there are significant differences in careers and life experiences, but more often these feelings of inadequacy pop up over relatively small things that don’t matter as much as we think they do. For Example: Maybe someone had an easier upbringing, or is naturally gifted at some skill, but guess what? It does not matter. Some studies show people perform better when they focus on their unique qualities instead of comparing themselves to others.
Rise Above Negativity: It’s easy to indulge yourself in negativity, but many people find that being surrounded by friends and family who appreciate the differences can be difficult to fit into a negative mindset. If you find you are struggling with negativity, instead of dwelling on your differences, focus on what makes you unique. Be proud of who you are. Negative people aren’t going to help you to improve your situation; positive ones will. Positive people not only make themselves feel better, but they make others feel better about themselves too. Finding support from other individuals like yourself will help counteract negative mindsets, allowing you to start focusing on positivity again.
Celebrate Diversity: Don’t try to fit in—embrace your differences. Different people make us better. The more we understand our differences, and accept them as part of what makes us human, the better off we will be, because when we embrace our uniqueness, only then we will be able to realize how many opportunities exist for discovering new solutions, or pursuing new ways of doing things, so celebrate who you are and what makes you different, as well as those around you who are a little different too.
Censorship Diminishes Us All: In our desire to be culturally sensitive, we often go too far and seek to eliminate some kind of speech or behavior that could be deemed offensive. Censorship does not improve on a bad idea; it only silences free speech and prevents us from engaging in a debate. It’s up to each of us as individuals to determine what kind of ideas we deem acceptable, and what kind of ideas are harmful, but we can’t accomplish the goal unless everyone gets a chance to speak up.
Treat Others As You Wish To Be Treated:
The Golden Rule reflects a desire for equality in our interactions with others, and also underscores our responsibility to help in creating that equality. If you want people to treat you fairly, then treat them fairly. If you want them to show respect, do your part by showing respect first. Helping foster positive interactions may not seem like a big deal on its own, but these small gestures actually contribute the most to our overall success and well-being in life.
Stand Up For Yourself: As you go through life, people will try to convince you that your differences make you less desirable or valuable in some way. Whether it’s because of your race, height, appearance or anything else; don’t believe them. The only way we can live in a more accepting world is if we stand up for ourselves, and speak out against discrimination and harassment, because at its core, being different isn’t something to be ashamed of, but it’s something to celebrate.
How do I know? Because I am different.
Written By: Miss Mariam Ehytasham