Presenting authentically is my hushed triumph. It’s woven into the way I dress, the way I customize my possessions, and the way I communicate with others. 

Yet society’s fear of the unknown deters people from truly shining. Everything, from beauty standards to our innate desire for approval and belonging, pressures us to conform to the social order. We are performers for the masses, entertaining their expectations rather than satisfying our own desires. 

Why should we? 

Personally, being genuine relieves me; it refreshes me. Waking up in the morning to pictures of carefree memories adorning the walls and the sun peeking through my yellow curtains fulfills me. Going through the motions of dressing up, gliding blush across my cheeks and sweeping mascara on my lashes eases me. Filling my water bottle, embellished with an assortment of stickers, prepares me for the day.  

Authenticity doesn’t come without its trials, however. Throughout high school, I feared people’s judgments, especially from my own peers. Teenagers are ruthless; their bluntness and haste in labeling unconventional students as “weird” hinders personal fulfillment. I was afraid of becoming a target. 

But once I graduated, I ran wild.  

I snuck into piercing shops, began experimenting with my fashion sense, and cut my long hair. My friends were impressed with me. Strangers complimented me and my parents didn’t know what to do with me.  

I’ve since calmed down, of course, electing an inward approach to my authenticity, one that doesn’t involve an audience or visual placeholders. However, do I have any regrets? Absolutely not. The delight I felt from getting piercings or surprising my parents with a new haircut are all memories I’ll cherish forever.  

We’re not here for long. Our youth is fleeting. Go out, do something thrilling, and make the memories of a lifetime.