For some odd reason being “basic” is becoming a cool, popular trend. Basic means simple and plain, to be at the most fundamental level possible. In a time where women are still fighting to empower themselves by having equal pay and representation in the work place and to be shown with respect and dignity in the media, why do we also insistent on defining ourselves as “basic”?
Our lives are full of contradiction and sometimes it is hard to know why we are doing certain things. For example, are we dressing up in a sexy Halloween costume because society has forced women to feel like, in order to be accepted and seen as desirable, they need to show a lot of skin? Or is it because society also tells women they are only objects for men’s sexual enjoyment, but we are taking back our sexuality for our own pleasure? We may believe we are doing it for the second reason but, at least personally, I always have a little bit of doubt that it is just because I do not want to stand out amongst the crowd. I think most people don’t realize what they are saying when they are “basic.” We may all follow trends but that does not make us “basic,” it means we are human. Trends have always been popular; they help companies be successful.
No one should want to define herself as basic. They should want to be extraordinary. Every single one of us brings unique ideas and personalities to the world. We may like similar things but we are still individuals. No one lives the same life as you, and you are shaped by your life experiences so do not fall into the habit of saying you are “basic.”
Some ideas may be less unique then others, such as a cat for Halloween versus a unicorn or circus tamer, but that does not make one idea bad. Heck sometimes you just want to dress up like a dang cat but don’t think you are basic because of it. Put your personality into everything you do. Own your decisions and be proud of who you are because who you are, is much more than basic.
