By Gail Supplee Tatum, Columnist, The Times
At this time in the world, we are discovering more and more how important being ourselves and expressing our individuality is.
We are coming to the realization that we all possess unique gifts that, once recognized, must be developed and shared with the world.
Imagine one never ending string of precious gems, each with its own special powers.
Isn’t that an amazing vision? As a human race, we are all linked together in one way or the other.
Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness in people. Roy T. Bennett
Understanding what each of our roles as authentic beings is and how our role affects the other roles, as we ride the wave through the world, to create a positive ripple effect.
On the contrary, many of us are all consumed with what others think of us, to the point where we lose our individuality and instead try to be like others by acting, behaving or believing what someone else thinks.
We look at someone. We look at their accomplishments and successes. We think they have it all together. We want to be like them or at least we think we do.
We think that getting along in this world means doing what others do, the way they do it.
There are also those who don’t connect at all, not caring what others think and not taking pride in themselves, by caring about their health and well-being. This is an example of going along with the masses and being content to do so and not being interested in letting their inner light shine.
In spite of the growing awareness, we still are not clear about who we are and more importantly what our purpose is. How can that be?
How do we discover what our “light” is?
What do we need to do to recognize the expression of our true selves?
Here are a few things to do:
- Gain confidence by embracing who you are. Do you know who you are? This may sound like a silly question but it truly is THEE most important question you can ask yourself. What brings you joy? What can’t you live without? What CAN you live without? What sets your soul on fire? Be open and honest in your approach in order to really pull the answers together. Collectively those answers will bring your confidence out. Because one believes in oneself, one doesn’t try to convince others. Because one is content with oneself, one doesn’t need others’ approval. Because one accepts oneself, the whole world accepts him or her. Lao Tzu
- Find out how those who are important to you view you. How would they describe you in three words? This is not only fun but it can be eye-opening. We often times don’t view ourselves the way others view us. If you are surprised by some of the descriptions, it’s a perfect time to have a conversation with that important person, including yourself. To the world you may be one person, but to one person you are the world. Bill Wilson
- Learn to enjoy your own company. This is essential for healthy living and a healthy opinion of yourself. No one truly knows us but ourselves. Love yourself first and everything else falls into line. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world. Lucille Ball
In the words of Dr Seuss, Why fit in when you were born to stand out.
If we think about that, even for a second, we’d have to laugh because who better to say that!
