“The Real Me” Embracing my True self
In a world that often pressures us to conform, it's not uncommon to find ourselves wearing masks, trying to fit into roles that don't quite align with who we truly are. Have you ever experienced the strain of being someone you're not? I certainly have, and today, I'll share my journey of being forced to showcase a version of myself that wasn't authentically "me."
We all wear different masks throughout our lives, adapting to different situations and roles. It's part of human nature, the ability to be versatile and flexible. But what happens when the act becomes more of a performance than a simple adjustment? It's an issue many of us face.
My journey of being someone I wasn't began in my early years of school. I was a very talkative, laughing, and bookish kid who cherished the company of my close friends. I was outgoing, sociable, and extroverted by nature. However, I often faced challenges in making new friends from different backgrounds, be it someone from a different class or school. These new interactions were a source of discomfort for me. In an attempt to fit in and bridge the gap with these new acquaintances, I tried to be someone I wasn't. I found myself participating in activities that drained my energy, pretending to enjoy social situations that made me uncomfortable. I felt the need to mold myself into a version of me that would be more readily accepted by those around me. As I grew older, the pressure to conform to societal expectations intensified. It wasn't just about being more sociable; it was also about conforming to certain stereotypes and ideals. Whether it was trying to fit into the mold of a "cool" teenager, an "ideal" student, or a "perfect" employee, I felt the constant tug to be someone I wasn't. This pressure came from some so-called friends, family, and even my own self-criticism. As I ventured into the world of college for my graduation in Agriculture, I found myself surrounded by a diverse array of people, each with their own unique qualities and characteristics. Among my peers, I noticed a group of boys who seemed to fit the stereotypical definition of a "boy" - bold, heavy-voiced, and exuding the qualities that society often associates with masculinity. Meanwhile, I stood in stark contrast to these expectations. I wasn't the typical "boy" as defined by societal standards. I didn't have the boldness or the heavy voice that seemed to be the norm. Instead, I was sensitive, had a soft voice, and was naturally introverted. I was someone who didn't quite fit into the traditional mold, and it posed a challenge for me, especially when it came to making new friends. Navigating this new environment, I found myself in search of my own kind of "boy." I was seeking those who, like me, didn't conform to societal expectations and who valued qualities beyond superficial appearances. This quest, however, wasn't an easy one.
Life has a way of steering us in unexpected directions, and for me, that turning point came during my internship. It was there that I found myself in the midst of a community of people who defied judgment and wholeheartedly accepted me with all my quirks and originality. It was within these accepting arms that I discovered the profound truth that living a life inauthentic to oneself is not only unsustainable but deeply unsatisfying. The struggles of being different from the conventional definition of a "boy" and feeling out of place had been a recurring theme in my life. However, when I embarked on my internship, I was greeted by a different kind of community. People there were not judgmental; they embraced diversity and celebrated individuality. It was like a breath of fresh air in a world often choked by conformity. As I observed my colleagues and mentors in this nurturing environment, I couldn't help but reflect on my own life. I had spent years trying to fit into molds that weren't meant for me, pretending to be someone I wasn't just to appease the expectations of society. The result? I was perpetually unhappy, feeling like an imposter in my own life. In that moment, I made a resolute decision. I decided to shed the masks that I had been wearing for far too long. I chose to embrace my true self, regardless of the external pressures and expectations. This was not an act of rebellion but an act of self-acceptance and self-love. The transformation wasn't immediate, and it wasn't without challenges. Breaking free from the comfort zone of conformity was a daunting task, but it was a journey worth embarking on. I discovered that authenticity is not only liberating but also empowering. It gave me the courage to be unapologetically myself and to seek out those who appreciated me for who I truly was.
In conclusion, the struggle to be oneself in a world of rigid definitions is a common journey. However, it's essential to remember that authenticity is a powerful force, capable of forging meaningful connections with those who value and appreciate you for who you are. Don't let society's expectations dictate your identity. Embrace your true self, celebrate your uniqueness, and find your tribe of kindred spirits who will walk this journey with you, supporting your pursuit of authenticity.
