New year – true you?

“This above all to thine own self be true.”

How many of us can say we are our true selves? What with society having an opinion, social media (sigh) having an opinion, and then our friends and family, colleagues and even acquaintances. How can we possibly meet the weight of all those expectations, and should we even try?

Do you ever feel kind of itchy when you have to agree (or pretend to) with people’s opinion of how the world works and how you should live your life? There are so many controversial topics, especially in these strange times, and having to pretend because you don’t want to start an argument, can create anxiety or even a physical feeling of discomfort.

There might be more honest ways to avoid confrontation, perhaps by saying, ‘I don’t want to discuss that subject, it makes me feel uncomfortable’, or even, ‘I haven’t got the energy for a controversial discussion.’ Something that allows you to remain true to yourself, while avoiding the energy drain of an argument.

Some people, however, might prefer to confront others with the inevitable arguments that follow; others, like myself, prefer to avoid them. It doesn’t actually matter. Whichever feels most comfortable for you is the best way to deal with it – BECAUSE WE’RE ALL DIFFERENT AND WHAT IS RIGHT FOR SOME IS NOT RIGHT FOR OTHERS. Sorry for shouting but this is a particular hobby horse of mine!

It is so important for us to acknowledge our differences. We’re never going to be exactly the same. There is no ‘one size fits all’.  It’s hard because we relate everything to our own experiences, and how we think and feel, then judge others accordingly.

It’s helpful to remember while we’re gaily judging others that we don’t know everything about them or their lifestyle and beliefs. Don’t get me wrong though, it’s absolutely fine to disagree. All we need to do is to allow enough room for people to be themselves. As long as they’re not hurting anyone then why not?

We are all different, although in true, quantum paradox style, we are also all one! If we allow another person a bit more room to express themselves, maybe they, in turn, will allow us a bit more breathing room to express our true self, without having to get embroiled in arguments that drain us and take away from what we really want to do with our lives. What’s that you say? You don’t agree? Well, that’s absolutely fine with me! 😉 😊