On Conformity

I toyed with the idea of non-conformity for hours because of a project. This is because I have discovered that I hate conformity. This is the same logic that is bouncing trough the average student’s mind at any given moment. I suppose I’m not that unique. In an effort to concretize this notion, I imagined penguins that resembled men in suits and “emos” sporting their trademark haircuts.

When talking about conformity one can incorporate religion, social structure, traditions and even obedience. This is also sometimes referred to as “playing the game”. As I have just noticed, non-conforming is actually a very difficult goal to stride for. Even when your choices lead you to a decision different from some your counterparts, you are simply part of a new group with a different mind set. Taking risks is one way to separate yourself from the crowd. Like a tightrope walker, the riskier the stunt, the more chance you have to fall. Question your reality to stay in touch with your true self and your beliefs. From this point on, everyday decisions will create your individuality.

It may not be necessary to take significant risks. My questioning lead me to this: If all roads lead to Rome, is it better to take the road less travelled? This decision is to be made while taking in consideration that the only distinction between these two paths is the journey. One must take pleasure in the moment. We all age at the same rate and all live on the same earth. By taking pleasure in everything we do we stop competing. Without competition everyone can enjoy the journey without worrying about its end.