We've all been told from a very young age that each and every one of us is special in our own way. We're completely and totally unique ... just like the other 7 billion people in the world. As humans, we all share a common element: a sense of uniqueness. It's true that no one else thinks, speaks, walks, looks or even eats like you. Even identical twins have some physical or emotional trait that differentiates them. So, if all 7 billion of us are naturally idiosyncratic, why does society push us so hard to transform into something we aren't?
In the 21st century, it has become natural to make comments like: "I wish I were her. Her hair is so perfect," or "I wish my jawline looked like his," when you see a physically attractive person. Don't get me wrong, it's great to compliment people -- everybody needs a self confidence booster once in a while -- but at the same time, you shouldn't wish that you were that person. Even if you think said individual is absolutely perfect, they have their flaws just like you have yours. Embrace who you are and all of your imperfections because they're what make you you. I'm sure that by now most of you have heard of Toby Sheldon. This man spent one hundred thousand dollars on surgical procedures in an effort to emulate pop star, Justin Bieber. Don't be a Toby.
Steve Jobs and Bill Gates didn't invent Apple or Microsoft by trying to think like other people. Jennifer Lawrence didn't become a successful movie star by wanting to fit in. Theses people became famous because of their individualism and out-of-the-box ideas. They constantly push boundaries and try to improve their respective fields through embracing and celebrating their own ideas and methods.
Yes, you are completely and utterly unique. So use it. Use your idiosyncrasies to go out and make a difference. I know this sounds corny, but it's true. You can initiate change. Your ideas can push societal, cultural and technological boundaries. It's all you.
I'd like to leave you with a quote from one of the most unique and quirky individuals that ever lived, Dr Seuss. "Today you are you! That is truer than true! There is no one alive more you-er than you."
Go out there and be you.
