Happy Labor Day to all those who have the day off :)
Growing up I always felt a little different from my friends. I now say I have a lot of “unique” qualities, but when I was younger, I did not see them as unique. I saw them as an annoyance and a stigma to an otherwise “normal” life.
For example, I moved a few times so I was always the new girl at school. I have a later birthday than my friends so I was by far the last to turn double digits (the big 1-0), get my license, and turn 18. I ran cross-country, which is an awesome sport but not the most popular to join in high school. I’m an introvert in a world filled with loud extroverts. Then to add-on the celiac disease thing…well, I felt really different from my peers.
Last night I arrived at church a few minutes early so I had extra time to think things through (FYI my religion is a huge part of my life but, like politics, it’s something you just don’t talk about…unless you want to debate). I looked around and noticed only a handful of other students in the church and I drew the obvious conclusion that going to church on a Sunday night in college, especially when you have Labor Day off, is probably not the most popular thing to do. But I wasn’t the least bit self-conscious about spending my time at church on a Sunday night.
This doesn’t just relate only to church, but to all things that I enjoy doing. The things that make me “me.” I’ve become extremely comfortable in my own skin and that’s not something I could have said even 2 years ago.
I’m not too sure what clicked in my body, but I’ve begun to embrace my quirks. I’m proud that I don’t conform to a stereotype, whether it be that of a college student, sorority girl, female, etc. I’m pretty sure my family and close friends don’t judge me based on what I consider quirks, so I shouldn’t either.
Keeping it short and sweet today: For everyone out there who feels they aren’t doing “what’s cool,” you need a new definition.
Being unique is cool. Liking orange when everyone likes blue is cool.
Embrace what makes you “you” because I think you’re pretty darn awesome.
YES. I felt like the oddball all through college and in high school swimming was my life which is clearly not a popular sport. But at the end of the day, I’m proud of who I am and my quirks make me, me. Love this girl! You do you :)
“You do you” is becoming one of my new favorite mottos.
I feel like you find the best of the best quotes, girl. :P
Pinterest!
Never be scared to be yourself and not “fit in the lines”! It makes for a much interesting life and makes you a truly interesting person! I am by no means the norm and break every social mold there is. But I am so happy that I do! XOXO
The 15 year old me would never say this..but I’m very happy I’m not the norm, either :)
Love this! Life is so much better when you embrace who you are and don’t fall into the typical “stereotypes”!
Thanks, girl! It’s always hard to ignore the cultural and media stereotypes, but being unique is something I’m proud of.