Originality is important.

But you don't want to force it, right?

When it's forced, it exudes a contrived feeling, which is projected onto the people with whom we interact.

What's the best way to be original?

Be yourself.

“Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” (Oscar Wilde)

How can we be our self?

We have to first know ourselves.

Knowing ourselves and understanding our needs is essential. 

That requires introspection.

How do we achieve introspection?

Personally, I find a nice long walk or hike in nature helps me get into a reflective spirit. I also enjoy pouring my thoughts onto paper - in a notepad or on a computer. 

With journaling, we can ask ourselves questions we've never thought to ask ourselves before.

By doing so, this is where the magic of introspection happens.

Sit down with your notebook or with a blank word document and try these journaling prompts:

• What makes me happy?
• What activities help me feel alive?
• When I hang out with people what do I most enjoy? (i.e., the conversation, bouncing ideas, brainstorming, laughing?)
• What people and places spark joy in my life?
• When does my heart feel so full it'll burst? (Specific scenarios, activities?)
• Do I have a “WHY” and what is it?
• What makes me want to jump out of bed in the morning?
• Where do I want to be in 5 years > career-wise? personal-wise?
• What are some of my dreams, if any possibility and outcome were possible?
• Who do I want to be in 3 years? What does the future me look/sound/act like?
• Is there anything that I do that goes against my authentic expression?
• Are there people I spend time with who don't align with my authentic self?
• What are some of the influences of the background noise of society that I've succumbed to?
• What are 3 things I am going to do today that will prepare me for reaching my goals?

Once you get to know yourself better, you'll know what your passions are, what makes you happy, and how you want to spend your life.

Being yourself is liberating. And it's bold. Because it means you're doing what you enjoy rather than what someone (read: society) tells you what to enjoy.

Originality is the essence of living your life fully as YOU. It's about setting your own expectations and goals and going after a life where you can fully embrace your authentic expression. 

For a deep dive into originality, I highly recommend Adam Grant's book Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World.

Happy Introspecting :)

🌟Sparkle Strong, 

MD

Thank you for reading!!