Self Acceptance

Back in my high school days, I was often coerced by my surroundings to act in a manner consistent with what they perceive of me.

Confident, stoic, soft-spoken, charismatic, all-rounder, role model. The list goes on and on.

In reality though, I had to hide my true persona which some are polar opposites of these traits, all in the name of conforming to the behaviours that others had expected from me.

It wasn’t until in F5 that I finally decided to end this facade and come into terms with who I am.

It wasn’t easy, as whenever I showed parts of my true self to others, some pointed out that it was so unbecoming of me and my character to behave this way. That, I should’ve kept a calmer demeanour, be more collected and have high self-control. Befitting of the stereotypes.

Every day it was like a clash between personas, racing to be manifested.

Eventually, I decided I had enough. Until I pulled both my feet out of this cocoon, I won’t be fully enjoying myself and be happy, much like how most of my high school self had been.

My freshman life was the stepping stone of change. Started anew and fresh. It was a risky and bold move, but it was so damn worth it.

From being so calculated about my own etiquette because of what others thought of me, I get to lift that unnecessary burden and just be me.

While the conclusion is obvious, the journey certainly isn’t. Some even rather preferred to stay in status quo in fear of what others might think of them.

Self-acceptance and self-love is one of those things that are easier said than done.

My final words for this unwarranted mini Ted-talk of mine?

Just be silly, be fun. Be daringly different, be imperfect. Be unapologetically you and let who you truly are see the light of day, for life is simply too short not to.