/ʌnˈɔːθədɒks/
Adjective
contrary to what is usual, traditional, or accepted; not orthodox.
Unorthodox, this is going to be my new word and it’s going to live in the centre of what I do. It is about not conforming to the norm, and being unusual and unconventional should be celebrated.
More than ever now, we can be so easily influenced by others online using social media. It is a much easier route to simply copy someone because it is seen as the norm or seen as trendy, rather than take the time to learn about ourselves and our true personality, which could be very different to what is considered as normal.
On Instagram especially, it may seem that there is growing diversity and individuality amongst us. It is true to some extent as social media, photography and editing tools these days give us much more creative freedom and ability to better express ourselves; just look at all those images you see on Instagram that are jaw-droppingly gorgeous, those filters and edits used are incredible. But what we don’t realise is that most of us unconsciously compare with each other, and try to fit in to be accepted by others. We put this stress on ourselves to look a certain way, be a certain way and achieve things that other people seem to be achieving. Truth is, we don’t need to adhere to a timeline or beauty standards that are drawn up by society.
It’s a learning process, to understand who you are and what makes you tick, without being influenced by others along the way to shape you into someone you’re not. Everyone grows and develops their own style, personality and voice, evolving yourself and changing is normal.
Embrace our differences, don’t feel pressured to conform just to feel like you belong somewhere. When you do what feels right for you and be unorthodox, that’s when you’ll feel at home with yourself.
