To Thy Own Self Be True
abracad, · Categories: self help, spiritualityHow to be yourself
Many years ago the English bard William Shakespeare wisely penned the words: "This above all: to thine own self be true." In these days of celebrity culture and reality TV their relevance has never been greater.
Though we each originate from a single source, remain part of that source, and shall some day soon return from whence we came, we are all unique individuals. We come in different shapes, sizes and skin colors. We are born into and conditioned by different cultures and family conditions. We all have different personalities, talents, weaknesses... This is part of the miracle of being, and forms our very purpose. For all our differences point to different life paths, and different lessons to learn.
With its glossy magazines, multi-channel TV, and that marvelous but double-edged sword that is the Internet, modern society bombards us with images of what we "ought" to be. Fashions and fads come and go, today's hip celeb is tomorrow's has been. There's so much pressure to model ourselves on what's cool this moment. But isn't all this missing the real point. You're each born to be yourself, and whatever that may be, it's certainly different from everyone else.
It can be hard to find one's true identity or purpose among all the mass conditioning from friends and media alike. Indeed, the discovery of purpose and its subsequent pursuit is possibly life's hardest challenge, with so many temptations to deviate. But it's also just about the most useful and satisfying thing we can undertake.
So, how to begin? First, learn to tune out the noise. You don't need to become a square or recluse and can still indulge in all the latest celeb gossip, just see it as a collection of individuals that are pursuing their paths rather than trailblazers to be badly emulated. Next, make time to listen to your inner self, that little voice within that tells you where you really want to be. Look out for your natural talents, interests, attractions - these are the signposts that mark the way.
Equally important is truth within yourself. Often through embarrassment or whatever we can find it difficult to admit to ourselves our failings, or even the reasons behind our failings. Re-inventing the present or past might avoid some temporary discomfort, but prevents us addressing what most needs our attention, and ultimately creates far greater future discomfort. Our inner dialog is rightly private, and while we ought show our best face to the world our very progress depends on complete honesty with ourselves.
Beware too that others don't distract you from the path of self-integrity. There are those that feign friendship but in reality mean only to use your will to further their own ends. Learn to distinguish them from real friends, and those in genuine need. Don’t waste energy by fighting or resisting them, simply walk away. Should you find it within yourself, offer a thought for these troubled souls.
Don't let the above prevent you benefiting from true role models. These are folk known to you or otherwise who inspire by example. Human history has many examples. Don't try to become them - first, they are they and you are you, and second, closer examination will surely reveal they too have their flaws. But do allow their achievements to shine like a beacon guiding you along your own unique journey to be yourself.
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Filed in: self help, spirituality
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