In today’s fast-paced, constantly connected world, it’s easy to lose sight of who you truly are. We are often bombarded by societal expectations, family pressures, and the ever-present influence of social media, which can distort our sense of self. The idea of “becoming what you are” encourages us to break away from these external pressures and focus on discovering and embracing our authentic selves. But what does it truly mean to “become what you are,” and how can we navigate this journey toward self-discovery and authenticity?
What Does “Become What You Are” Really Mean?
At its core, “become what you are” is about aligning your outer life with your inner self. It’s the idea that each of us already possesses unique talents, values, and desires, but often, we are too distracted or afraid to fully embrace them. Instead of molding ourselves to fit societal standards or others’ expectations, the challenge is to uncover and accept our true selves—flaws and all.
The phrase suggests that we are not trying to become something or someone else, but rather, we are returning to the essence of who we have always been. It’s about peeling away layers of conditioning and external influences to reconnect with our core identity.
Steps to “Become What You Are”
1. Self-Reflection and Introspection
The first step toward becoming your true self is to take a deep dive into your inner world. Ask yourself questions like:
- What truly makes me happy?
- What are my core values?
- What do I love doing when nobody is watching or judging?
- How do I want to be remembered?
Journaling, meditation, or simply spending quiet time alone can help you reflect on these questions and bring clarity to your inner desires and values.
2. Letting Go of External Expectations
One of the greatest barriers to becoming what you are is the pressure to conform to external expectations. Society, family, and peers can place immense pressure on us to act or live in certain ways. Recognizing when you are living to please others instead of yourself is crucial.
Letting go of these expectations doesn’t mean disregarding your responsibilities or relationships; it means learning to balance external demands with your own needs and desires. You don’t have to fit into someone else’s mold of success or happiness.
3. Embrace Your Uniqueness
Everyone has their own strengths, weaknesses, quirks, and passions. To become what you are, it’s essential to embrace everything that makes you, you—including the parts that you may have been ashamed of or felt insecure about. Authenticity is about owning who you are, even if it’s different from what society deems “normal.”
Celebrate your uniqueness, and remember that it’s your individuality that sets you apart and gives you a purpose that no one else can fulfill.
4. Courage to Change
Becoming what you are often requires change—whether that’s leaving behind certain habits, shifting relationships, or even changing careers. Change can be scary, but it’s a necessary part of growth. It takes courage to pursue the life that truly aligns with who you are.
Start with small steps. Identify areas of your life that feel disconnected from your true self, and gradually make adjustments that bring you closer to living authentically.
5. Patience and Compassion
The journey to becoming what you are is ongoing. There’s no fixed endpoint, and the process of self-discovery evolves as you grow and change over time. It’s important to be patient with yourself and practice self-compassion along the way. There will be times when you falter or feel lost, but that’s all part of the journey.
The Importance of Becoming What You Are
Living authentically has numerous benefits. When you align with your true self, you tend to experience greater fulfillment, joy, and peace. Here’s why becoming what you are matters:
- Personal Fulfillment: Living according to your true values and desires brings a deep sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. You no longer feel like you’re chasing someone else’s idea of happiness.
- Confidence and Resilience: When you embrace your authentic self, you gain confidence in your own worth. This confidence makes you more resilient in the face of criticism or external pressure because you’re no longer dependent on others for validation.
- Better Relationships: Authenticity fosters deeper, more meaningful connections. When you are true to yourself, you attract people who appreciate you for who you are, not who you pretend to be.
- Reduced Stress: Living a life that aligns with your true self reduces the mental and emotional stress of pretending to be someone else. It allows you to move through life with greater ease and contentment.
Common Myths About “Becoming What You Are”
Myth 1: “Becoming what you are” means rejecting change.
False. Becoming your authentic self often requires growth and transformation. The process of self-discovery may lead you to new interests, passions, or beliefs.
Myth 2: Being true to yourself is selfish.
Authenticity is not about ignoring others’ needs or being selfish. In fact, when you live authentically, you’re more capable of contributing to the world in a meaningful way because you’re operating from a place of honesty and integrity.
Myth 3: You either “find yourself” or you don’t.
Self-discovery is not a one-time event but a lifelong journey. You will continue to evolve and discover new aspects of yourself as you encounter new experiences and challenges.
FAQs
1. How can I tell if I’m not living authentically?
If you frequently feel disconnected, dissatisfied, or like you’re “putting on a mask” in certain situations, these are signs that you may not be living in alignment with your true self. Pay attention to moments when you’re compromising your values or pretending to be someone you’re not to fit in.
2. How do I deal with the fear of judgment when trying to live authentically?
Fear of judgment is natural, but it’s important to remember that you cannot please everyone. Focus on what feels right for you and surround yourself with supportive people who accept you for who you are. Over time, the fear of judgment fades as you grow more confident in your authenticity.
3. Can I “become what I am” while still fulfilling societal and family responsibilities?
Yes, living authentically doesn’t mean abandoning your responsibilities. It means finding ways to honor your true self while fulfilling your commitments. This might involve setting boundaries, having open conversations with loved ones, or making changes to balance both aspects.
4. How do I find my true self?
Finding your true self involves deep self-reflection, experimentation, and patience. Engage in activities that bring you joy, reflect on your values, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone. Over time, you’ll discover more about who you are.
5. What if I don’t like the person I become?
It’s normal to struggle with self-acceptance, but personal growth and self-love are key to becoming comfortable with who you are. If you find areas of your life that you’re not proud of, see them as opportunities for growth, not as reasons to criticize yourself.
Conclusion
To “become what you are” is to embark on one of the most rewarding journeys of self-discovery. It requires introspection, courage, and patience, but the outcome is a life lived with purpose, authenticity, and joy. As you move through life, remember that the process of becoming yourself is ongoing, and each step you take toward living authentically brings you closer to inner peace and fulfillment.