Social norms are little actions, phrases or ideas that are presented to society and people gravitate towards them and bask in their glory. But nobody really ever takes a step and asks the most obvious question -- "Why?" Why do we all follow these norms? Who decides when something becomes a social norm? Why is it is frowned upon when somebody dares to go against the current of society. Buckle your seat belts, because I'm about to go against everything society has taught you.
In my last article, Why Family Doesn't Mean Blood, I talked about the social norm of "blood is thicker then water." But why? Just because you share blood with somebody doesn't mean that the bond you share has to be stronger than a bond you share with a friend.
Another example would be when men are supposed to be the bread winners; the ones who go out and get a job while the women stay at home and take care of the home and the children, teaching them life skills so that they can inevitably repeat this process when they grow up and get married. Again, why? Just because something is done for a handful of years does not necessarily mean that it is correct. And who decided what's perceived as normal and what isn't?
Some of the most powerful and influential people in the country, as well as other countries around the world, are those who push societal boundaries on what is perceived as acceptable and stand up for what they believe in.
For example, a group of teens founded tentree, a company where every article of clothing that is purchased, ten trees are planted. This organization became such a success that they were able to fly to some of the poorest parts of Africa and replant trees there, allowing for wild animals to return and create a more steady food supply for the inhabitants of that region.
For years, children were expected to go to school obey their parents, and earn a high level education so that they would be successful. See? There's another social norm: a high level education (ie a college degree or higher) is required in order for somebody to be successful in this world. What about Albert Einstein or Mark Zuckerberg? The phone that is glued to everyone's hands, the iPhone, was invented by college dropout Steve Jobs. And yes, I know what you are thinking: "Well, those are special cases. Not everyone is as smart as they were" which is a very valid point. However, had they not gone against the current of society and pursue their goals they may not have done some of the amazing things that they accomplished.
Look, I get it. Social norms help us integrate into society so that we can get through our daily lives. But, don't be afraid to stand up and go against some social norms and create your own path. In the comments below, I want to hear some social norms that you guys either want to change, want to know where they came from, or some that you can't believe exist. Whatever it may be, get involved and let me hear your input.
