For me, it can be a source of frustration to feel as if I have to live up to someone else's expectations. Expectations that someone else or society deems as being acceptable or not acceptable. I refuse to and will not ever fit into someone else's or my own box. This brings me to a topic I found thought-provoking, which is, what does it mean to be unapologetically you? I do not believe that there is a right or wrong way of being. As Nichi said, "become yourself". The journey is about becoming you. What a powerful statement! Let's dive into what it means to become unapologetically you.
Constant Discovery
In my experience, the journey is about becoming who I am. I don't mean what is out there in the world to see and do, but who I am as a person. It is a constant discovery of what makes me tick.
Unrelenting Calling to be Unapologetic
I have this unrelenting calling to be unapologetic about who I am and how I show up for the things that are important in my life. I am pulled by growth and am always growing and changing. I'm tired of attempting to fit someone else's and society's ideals of who I should be and how I should live my life. And I’m done apologizing for it.
As I become increasingly aware of the things that aren't really me, I can assess each one and ask myself what I actually want to live by. For instance, let's say you grew up only having dogs as pets and now realize that you have other options. What is it that really works best with your lifestyle? Maybe a cat, a bird, or even a fish. What do you really want?
We All Have Choices
I like the idea that we all have choices. I believe that we do not have to do anything. I understand that there are consequences to my actions. For example, if I choose to run a red light, that is my decision. However, I also know that there are repercussions. I have put myself and others in harm's way, I may cause an accident, and more than likely will get a ticket. At the end of the day, it was my choice though.
Growing and Changing
One of the characteristics of being unapologetically you that I really like is the concept that I am constantly growing and changing. I believe it is a disservice to hold anyone to who they were 10 years ago, 5 years ago, or even just 1 year ago. I have found throughout the years that my core values such as compassion, love, and congruence have remained the same, and more than likely will be a part of me throughout my journey. However, the rest of it is subject to change.
The Freedom to Be Me
Freedom comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and realities. I firmly believe that I have the freedom to be unapologetically me, and if I'm not...then that is on me. For me, this is my growth opportunity. I'm not saying that there won't be hurdles that you have to overcome to be you, but it is my opinion that it is your moment to seize.
Always Be in the Process of Becoming
In my experience, I am always growing. I do not believe that it is human nature to remain static, nor do I believe it is possible. Our rate of growth may change, but I believe that we are always growing in some way, no matter how insignificant it may seem. Embrace yourself. Embrace change and be unapologetically you!