Wednesday, July 1, 2009

The Race to Nowhere: The 2009 Guide to 'Being Yourself'

In a monopolized society of doing all things at once without thinking of the consequences if you can’t do ONE thing right, ‘being yourself’ is all but a thing of the past. There was a time, not too long ago, wow, maybe 25 years ago that individuality was the code for everything social. From fat string shoe laces to worn-out rocker t-shirts, walking outside to find that someone else was wearing your style meant that you’d be back in your home, in your closet trying to tweak your look.

Speaking your mind meant so much more back then. Your opinion on any subject was all your own. And that opinion did not need to be validated by anyone. People also read articles before checking out the comments of those that read it before them.

In 2009, individuality is practically criminal. Popular companies are putting aside the very signature that brought success, to brand-jack another company’s meal ticket. Since when did big time pizza companies try to compete with hoagie joints? When did waffle manufacturers decide to also make the syrup? Why can’t anybody stick to the script anymore?

Oh, and please don’t speak negatively on a subject in 2009 because your opinion will be described as a form of hating. It doesn’t matter if your statement is dead-on. Conforming to abnormal norms and accepting mediocrity without any resistance is the new norm. And I am totally hating on that.

So here is what I have to say at this very moment: What is wrong with being who you are and expressing your signature blend of personality? There is nothing wrong with that. Why must we follow each other from one online social community to the next just because some random channel clicker says we should? You should do what works for you. Why should you follow a trendsetter that wears clothing as a costume, when you wear your clothing for everyday life? Now you’re caught in some skinny jeans that your idol only wore for the photo shoot.

It is never too late to stand up and believe that who you are really counts in this world. 2008 was the year of the gentlemen. 2009, even being halfway in the books, can now become, “The Year of the Individual.”

Before I forget, "No, I do not want a sandwich from a Pizza shop!"

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