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Writer's pictureEmily

Be Yourself - What Does It Mean?

Within a society that frequently pushes us to conform, the phrase "Be yourself" emerges as a powerful message advocating for people to be genuine. However, this is such a vague statement that can be puzzling for many. What exactly does it mean to truly "be yourself"? As we decipher this complex phrase, we will look into themes of self-assurance, individual values, and how we can rediscover our inner selves.


Be Authentic

Being yourself is about being real, genuine and authentic. Authenticity is a personal approach that varies from one person to another. Some may find it when they embrace their distinct qualities, pursue their passions, and display their true selves in an outgoing way. Others may never have understood this phrase. It can be a challenging, ongoing process. It requires a deep sense of self-awareness and reflection to uncover the layers of identity that have been shaped by external pressures, cultural norms, and personal insecurities. By peeling away these layers, each person can reveal their true self and connect with their utmost desires and aspirations. But uncovering the core of YOUR identity often involves peeling away external pressures, societal norms, and deep-seated anxieties.


The Influence of Childhood

Since childhood, numerous children unconsciously are told to get rid of their intuition. The delightful murmurs of their inner voice, once a natural gift is slowly eradicated due to the pressures of adulthood. Educational institutions and societal norms frequently emphasise that 'we' as the citizens of society should follow certain rules, which encourage children to suppress their impulses and instincts. Consequently, many grown-ups face an internal conflict stemming from this conditioning. The carefree children who used to dance without concern for others' judgments often evolve into adults who struggle to rediscover that playfulness they once had as a child. This impact of childhood experiences shapes our beliefs, behaviours, and, ultimately, our self-perception. The inner child can become silenced, locked away under layers of self-doubt and societal expectations. This is why reconnecting with our inner child is crucial. It can help us rediscover those intuitive, powerful feelings of joy and authenticity that we were once encouraged to explore and embrace.

Confidence and Personality

Self-identity is deeply rooted in confidence. This confidence goes beyond putting on a mask to be a people pleaser for societal approval. It is an essential part of recognising and accepting yourself. If you stop comparing yourself to others, you can shine a light on your true self. Understanding our preferences and what makes us confident allows us to think about being the best version we can be to ourselves and also to others. Think about what brings you happiness. What ignites your passion?


Listening to Ourselves

To "be yourself," we must first learn to listen to ourselves. This is an ongoing process of self-analysis and reflection. It requires us to create an open dialogue with our thoughts and feelings. In the hustle and bustle of life, many ignore their emotional signals, leading to a disconnection from genuine desires. Practising mindfulness and meditation can be excellent avenues for nurturing self-awareness. Such practices encourage us to pay attention to our emotions and thoughts, which allows us to understand our own values and morals. By creating this awareness, we gradually peel back layers of fear and self-doubt, which allows us to be more authentic.


Developing Ourselves

To be ourselves also means embracing continual growth and development. Self-discovery is not an end goal, but rather a lifelong journey. As we become more attuned to our innate preferences and values, we unveil our true paths. This process can enable us to evolve and adapt without losing authenticity. In a world dominated by social media, comparison is an ever-present threat. It is vital to focus on your journey rather than measuring your progress against others. Don't listen to the number of followers you have but know that life is not a sprint, it's a marathon. Everyone's path is unique, and shaped by individual experiences, struggles, and achievements. Embracing this philosophy can help alleviate the pressure to conform.


Removing Fear

Fear is often the greatest factor preventing individuals from fully embracing themselves. The fear of rejection, failure, or being misunderstood can exacerbate our self-doubt. However, confronting these fears head-on is essential for discovering who we truly are. Taking small steps, whether being a creative artist, sharing your thoughts with trusted friends, or embracing vulnerability, can help remove the barriers built by fear. Knowing your passions and dreams can ignite sparks of enthusiasm and motivation.


So essentially even though the phrase "Be yourself" can be vague, it is a statement where you know yourself inside out to be able to make the right decisions in life for you. It is an invitation for self-discovery and personal growth. It helps us reconnect with our inner child, listen to the good voice that's inside our heads, and embrace our unique paths without fear of judgment. By focusing on our values and choices, we can be the real versions of ourselves without hiding or shying away from what we want, which is something that we all strive for daily. If you want help discovering yourself or want to start that journey of finding yourself and improving your confidence, book a call with me.




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