Photography by Reese Niccolls
If you’re reading this, be yourself even when the world is watching.
Even when eyes are on you, or cameras are recording, stay true to who you are. In the past, I found myself trying to change who I was to fit in with a crowd, be more likeable, or fly under the radar. I worried about how I was being perceived and whether the people around me approved of who I was. Sometimes, it felt easier to blend in than to risk standing out. Over time, though, I have realized that staying true to yourself is vital for your character and well-being. There is something so freeing about not having to switch between who you want to be and who other people want you to be. Who cares if people are paying attention? Listen to the music you like, dance like nobody else is in the room, express your hobbies, have fun, and be yourself. Laugh loudly, wear what makes you feel confident, talk about the things you are passionate about, and let yourself enjoy the little things without worrying about how they look to someone else. So much of today’s world is about fitting ourselves into boxes and following the trends, being a part of a larger culture, and following all the norms. Social media makes this even more difficult because we are constantly seeing how other people live, dress, talk, and present themselves. It can be easy to compare ourselves and feel like we need to act a certain way to belong. It may feel awkward and embarrassing at times, but it is entirely okay to break those standards and stay true to yourself. Sometimes, the things that make you stand out are the exact things that make you memorable, genuine, and uniquely you.
There may be people who watch and judge, but on the other hand, there will be people who join you, embrace the moment, and live in the fun. You can’t control how everyone around you will react, but you can control whether you allow their opinions to determine how you live your life. Even when it may feel weird to stand out, someone else out there is looking to you for motivation. What feels embarrassing in the moment could become a point of connection, confidence, or inspiration for someone else.
At the end of the day, people are going to have opinions no matter what you do. You might as well spend your time being someone you are proud to be rather than trying to become someone you think other people will accept. Be who you want to be, not who the world wants you to be.
Emerson H., Syracuse University
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