Shine Your Light in the World
It isn’t easy to stand up and stand as your true self. We learn early in life that it’s often easier to blend in with the crowd. In grade school, being unique often leads to bullying and teasing. While life gets easier into adulthood, adults are not an exception for bullying other adults.
However, the world needs YOU, and you need yourself! As long as you suppress your true self, life will not give you complete satisfaction.
Live your truth: Understand that everyone is trying to fit in. Most humans have an innate desire to fit in with the crowd. It’s not comfortable to stand out, but that’s where you’ll find the most success and satisfaction.
We admire those that are willing to be themselves. In a sea of seemingly ordinary people, those brave enough to present themselves honestly to the world are valued and respected. You can be one of those people. Take a deep breath and reveal your true self. Share your skills and your weirdness. Most of the famous people you can name overcame the need to be anonymous. They were willing to put their best and unique gifts out into the world.
Know that people are respected for daring to be unique. Think about the people you know that are willing to be themselves regardless of the circumstances. Their level of comfort is attractive to others. We love people with this ability and want to be more like them.
Understand that people will be jealous of you if you can be comfortable being yourself. There’s a lot to be gained socially by presenting yourself honestly. Give it a try.
Identify what’s unique about you. What can you do better than most people? What are your natural gifts and talents? What is your individual value to the world? How are you different from others?
Find ways to show yourself to the world that isn’t too uncomfortable. Suppose your talent is painting, but you fear showing anyone your work. You might choose to post your artwork anonymously online. Or you might try to sell your art in a gallery that’s out of town. What can you do to begin exposing yourself to the world slowly and comfortably? Maybe you can start with your friends. Give your opinions freely. One way to show your individuality is to just share your thoughts when appropriate.
Focus on the positive. When you receive some results from taking that first step, focus on the positive. Allow yourself to enjoy the compliments. Notice how any criticism doesn’t really mean a thing. The better you can make yourself feel, the more comfortable you’ll be taking a more significant step.
Find like-minded people. There are people out there trying to do the same thing you are. Keeping with the artist theme, you could find other artists to spend time with. You can support each other. You can learn from each other. You’ll feel braver if you’re part of a community.
Live Your Truth 