Contrary to popular belief, your closet doesn't need to be composed of worn down flannels and black leather pants for you to be warranted as a badass. You don't even need black matte claws or a fondness for black coffee. A true badass, as defined by Urban Dictionary, is an individual who "totally owns who he/she is, is uninhibited in who they are and doesn't let what other people think affect his/her actions/decisions." Though this definition of a badass doesn't exactly fit the stereotype that we as a society have become familiar with, it is still a hard concept for many to master. However, with these five tips, anyone can channel that inner fearlessness that is the epitome of badassery and live a life of complete authenticity that we should all strive to achieve
Be Yourself!
Embracing your individuality is a key component to becoming a total badass. I mean, what screams rebellious louder than a person's undying devotion to what makes them unique in a society that expects us all to conform to certain behaviors and beliefs? Being authentic to who you are gives you much more credibility as a person, and though people might not understand you, they will respect you. Own whatever makes you unique, for those are the qualities that make you different from the rest and the qualities that will take you further in the end.
Don't let the opinions of others consume you
In such a self-centered society, of course our natural reaction to haters is to take what they say personally. This is a fatal flaw in all humans, for we should never take the things that people say and do so closely to heart. If someone is trying to tear you down with their words or actions, just know that the root of their intentions lies within their own personal issues. They are insecure about their own path, so they feel the need to try and block you from continuing down yours. If you continue to react to these kinds of people's perceptions of you, then they will be persistent in sharing these beliefs because they see that it is breaking you down. Though it's hard, you must remember the reason that they're doing this, and remember to keep your head high and stay focused on where you are and where you want to be.
Take risks
Good things don't come to those who wait—good things come to those who get up and go after them. Apply for every opportunity that interests you. Take the initiative to call or email places you would like to volunteer or work at. Taking initiative is an extremely attractive quality both to future employers as well as fellow peers/colleagues, and the worst thing to come of it is someone telling you no. If rejection is the result of you taking a risk, so what? The opportunity was not meant for you, and that "no" is a way to get closure and move on to the next door that opens. You'll never know if you never try!
Confidence is key
As a girl that has survived the insane rollercoaster known as the teenage years, I understand completely that confidence is not always an easy energy to emanate. However, confidence is more than just a characteristic—it is a way of life. Little things, such as your body language and posture, say a lot about your confidence level alone. Strut your stuff through the streets, flash genuine smiles at strangers and remind yourself that you got this. Even if you're unsure of what you're doing and where you're going, a little confidence can go a long way, and it can make you feel at ease with the assurance it gives you.
Start your mornings right
Sometimes it's hard to automatically wake up with the mindset that the day ahead will be a good one. However, making your morning ritual fun is always a good place to start. Brew yourself some coffee, put on some Beyoncé, throw open the curtains and dance around in the beams of light while you get dressed. Play around with some fun lipstick shades or the newest eye makeup trend, and don't be afraid to make a statement. Wake up with enough time to really get yourself ready and organized each day, and you'll find that you're more ready than ever to tackle whatever life may throw at you.
Being a badass is not shutting off your emotions or smoking cigarettes against the worn brick wall of your local elementary school. Being a badass is being completely true to who you are despite what others may say about it, and making your own way through the world if you can't find one. Practice these five tips to help change your mindset and lifestyle, and in no time you'll be the biggest and most respected badass on campus.
