I used to care a lot about what others thought of me. Like many, I went through that phase of trying to fit in. Honestly, sometimes I still do. As a professional, you’re expected to act “right,” to maintain a certain demeanor, and to suppress parts of yourself for the sake of being “normal.” But here’s the thing—what does “normal” even mean?

It’s a word we throw around, but its definition shifts with time, culture, and trends. Today, social media and technology have drastically altered how we perceive normalcy. So, the question is: Does adapting to societal norms require losing pieces of yourself along the way?

The Ever-Changing Definition of Normal

What’s considered “normal” today might have been seen as absurd decades ago. Society’s standards are constantly evolving—whether it’s fashion, career choices, or lifestyle preferences. Social media has accelerated this evolution, flooding us daily with new trends and opinions.

The sheer volume of content makes it difficult to distinguish between what resonates with our authentic selves and what we’re merely imitating. With the constant changes, I can’t help but wonder: If “normal” is so fluid, why do we chase it so relentlessly?

The Pressure to Conform

The pressure to fit in is subtle yet ever-present. It might come in the form of workplace expectations, societal judgments, or even family traditions. We’re wired to seek acceptance, but at what cost?

I’ve felt this pressure in my own life—choosing what I say, wear, or do based on what’s considered “appropriate.” Over time, I realized how this fear of judgment stifled my creativity and individuality. The fear of being labeled “different” can keep us trapped in a cycle of conformity, often leaving us unfulfilled.

The Consequences of Losing Yourself

When you prioritize fitting in over being true to yourself, it can take a toll. You start to:

  • Suppress your thoughts and passions.
  • Feel emotionally drained from constantly pretending.
  • Lose touch with what genuinely makes you happy.

I’ve been there—feeling like I was living someone else’s life instead of my own. The longer you suppress your authenticity, the harder it becomes to reconnect with who you really are. It’s a slow erosion of self-worth, all for the sake of meeting societal expectations.

Choosing Individuality Over Conformity

I decided to break free from the mold by embracing my individuality. For me, that meant writing. Instead of scrolling endlessly on social media or seeking external validation, I chose to create something meaningful. Writing became my way of reclaiming my voice, my thoughts, and my identity.

It’s not always easy, though. People might find your choices “weird” or “different,” but that’s okay. As long as you’re living ethically and staying true to your values, you’re on the right path. There’s freedom in doing what you love, even when no one else understands it.

Striking a Balance

Of course, I’m not suggesting complete rebellion against societal norms. Some level of conformity is necessary for coexistence—we have laws, cultural customs, and shared values for a reason. But the key is to balance this with self-expression.

Ask yourself:

  • Are you living in alignment with your values, or just following the crowd?
  • Can you compromise on certain norms without sacrificing your authenticity?

For me, the balance lies in mindfulness. By thinking more and judging less, I’ve learned to respect both my individuality and the society I’m a part of.

Redefining “Normal” for Yourself

Ultimately, normal is what you define it to be. Instead of letting society dictate your path, why not set your own standards? I’ve stopped caring about what’s acceptable to others and started focusing on what feels right for me.

I’ve found joy in the “weird” things I do—like writing about topics that matter to me, even if no one else reads them. This shift has improved my quality of life, allowing me to live with authenticity and confidence.

Owning Your Story

We’re all part of one grand story, but each of us has the power to write our own chapters. For me, life is about making choices that feel true to who I am, not just what society expects.

So, here’s my challenge to you: Stop worrying about what others think and start living for yourself. Redefine what “normal” means to you, and create a life that’s meaningful, fulfilling, and unapologetically yours.

After all, isn’t that the only version of normal that truly matters?