Embracing Authenticity: A Journey of Ignoring Norms

Living in a world that is constantly influenced by societal norms and expectations can be suffocating. For many, these norms dictate how we should dress, celebrate holidays, and even communicate with others. However, not everyone feels compelled to follow these dictates. Some individuals find liberation in breaking free from societal expectations, embracing their true selves, and living authentically. This essay delves into the experiences of one such individual who has ignored various norms for over three decades, ultimately finding greater mental freedom and authenticity.

Living Without Holidays: Finding Freedom in Abolishing Celebrations

The author of this essay has decided to ignore every holiday, from Christmas and New Year’s to Halloween. For over 30 years, they have refused to acknowledge these events in any way. This act of ignoring societal expectations is liberating and allows for a more authentic way of life. They believe that various holidays and traditions are often created and perpetuated by individuals from the past to control and influence society. By ignoring these, they are breaking free from this Arbitrary control and finding their own path.

Challenging Social Expectations and Social Norms

The author also challenges other social norms and expectations, such as responding to social interactions, wearing appropriate clothing, and adhering to politeness. They do not always respond when people talk to them, ignoring the other person to avoid the discomfort of a conversation. They avoid wearing what society deems as proper clothing, often wearing their sleepwear and undergarments as outerwear. The author believes that if a fashion trend or political correctness does not align with their personal beliefs or comfort, they do not feel obligated to follow it.

Breaking Free from Superstitions and Logical Consistency

Religious and cultural superstitions hold no sway over the author. For instance, the phrase "bless you" after someone sneezes is seen as arbitrary and without logical basis. This refusal to participate in these minor rituals can be seen as a statement against irrational beliefs and the influence they have on everyday life. The author finds it physically painful to comply with such demands, lifting a significant burden off their shoulders in the process.

Embracing Authenticity through Attire and Hygiene

When it comes to fashion, the author is more concerned with personal preference, religious approval, and affordability than following the latest trends. They believe that clothing trends come and go, and focusing on them is a waste of time and energy. Similarly, when it comes to political correctness, the author sees how terminology changes without any practical impact on their lives or self-image. The end goal is to live a life that is authentic to oneself, rather than trying to conform to societal expectations.

Challenging the Status Quo: Defying Social and Religious Norms

The author also defies traditional societal norms concerning religion and morality. They believe that God, rather than the majority opinion, should guide the definition of right and wrong. They use the analogy of people jumping off a cliff, suggesting that the number of people involved does not change the outcome. This perspective highlights the importance of individual belief systems over societal norms.

Living in a way that disregards these norms can be challenging. The author has occasionally been asked to leave places for wearing clothes that do not align with traditional societal expectations. However, the discomfort of conforming to these norms is outweighed by the mental freedom and authenticity gained from being true to oneself. Ignoring norms allows the author to avoid misleading or actively lying to others, and find peace and integrity in their daily life.

Conclusion

This essay serves as a reminder that we are not bound by societal norms and expectations. By ignoring these constraints and embracing our true selves, we can find greater mental freedom, authenticity, and peace. It is a call to action for others to question and challenge the norms that do not align with their beliefs and to live in a way that is true to their authentic selves.