Photography by King Rose.
Shop my look: Downeast bomber jacket (similar here), c/o Shein full black bodysuit, c/o Blue Nile diamond and sapphire ring, mini gold backpack (similar here), and Nike athletic shoes.
Dare To Be Different: 3 Reasons Why
Happy Monday! When I was a sophomore in college, I remember feeling deeply disappointed for not being my true authentic self. Our English teacher asked us to select a music genre that would best describe ourselves and personality. We were to share it with everyone with an explanation of why the next time we would meet. For some reason, this homework assignment created anxiety in me. I feared the opinions of others. I went to a private church-owned university and most times I felt like a black sheep.
I loved attending BYU for my bachelor’s degree and consider myself blessed to have earned a full ride scholarship in leadership + academics. My four years there has shaped me into the incredible woman I am today. It’s also a conservative school and many people seemed to look and act the same. This was my perception of it as a young woman — if you were different you stood out. At the time, I thought that being different was bad. This mindset can be crippling.
It Is All In Your Head
I was so nervous about my song selection. What I wanted to pick was this fun and upbeat jam titled “Angel” written by the Jamaican musician Shaggy. Have you heard of it? However, my insecurity of feeling judged for my atypical song choice among led me to a different decision…a classical piece from the American composer Aaron Copland called “Hoedown.” Don’t get me wrong this classical song is amazing! You know I am a true cowgirl at heart being raised in Utah! But, it didn’t represent who I was at the time. It didn’t make my heart sing! I made a song choice that an American Idol judge would call “safe.”
Be Bold Be You
After squirming in my set during class, feeling silly and embarrassed for not embracing the “Angel” song I truly wanted to share, I vowed to be courageous in being different! You know what I realized? Nobody really cares. Well, I think I came to that conclusion years later. It took me a while to fully accept and celebrate me — just the way I am. Now, that I am a mother, I am insistent and persistent that my 3 angels be exactly who they are. To not fear the judgment and opinions of others. To be who God designed them to be! My babes are perfect and I think all mothers feel this way about their children.
Put It In Action
It is important for my three kids (and myself, I still need the reminders) to know and thoroughly understand how critical it is to step out and shine! But, I want to make sure that you get it too! Here are my 3 reasons why it is key to your self-worth to be you.
Dare to be different – 3 Reasons Why
- Focus on being different, not better. Don’t dismiss your unique qualities and idiosyncrasies by competing with others. Instead, focus on what makes you different and capitalize on that. The world is more beautiful because of your special features, traits, and gifts.
- Don’t fear judgment. Most of my life, I chose to do things because of distress of how other’s would perceive me. I have learned two things about this. One, people don’t care and are often more concerned about themselves. And second, if they do, they are not the kind of friends or family members you want in your life. Live your life freely and creatively!
- Be confident. For some, being self-assured comes naturally. For others, it is a practice. I was one of those who needed a lot of practice feeling confident. When I accepted myself (the good and the bad) and acted in ways that were in harmony with my life values, goals, and interests, it gave me the confidence to shine. Practice truly makes perfect for building confidence.
Step Up and Shine
Remember to always shine! When you follow your true calling and love yourself as you are — you feel inspired, happy, and peaceful. Honoring your unique gifts and characteristics also inspires those around you to do the same! That is so beautiful, right? There is a rippling effect to this. Dare to be different.
Thank you so much for stopping by and reading my post today. Please, drop a comment and let me know what you think. Also, if you have any suggestions on topics you would like me to cover, feel free to contact me and let me know. Love you guys! See you Wednesday!
P.S. Enjoy the music video from one of my favorite songs “Angel” from Shaggy! Turn it up and dance!
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