Did you know… that norm is a deceptive impression? It blinds us from our truth, distracts us from our beliefs and values, and restricts us from living our own story.

What’s with the Norm?

When I say norm, I’m referring to the “rules” set by tradition, culture, society, and whatnot. Have you ever felt stuck between a rock and a hard place, in doing or not wanting to do something? You thought it didn’t’ make sense and you still went on with it anyway? Perhaps you were afraid of being an outcast or despised upon for being…. abnormal… unusual… or strange?

I didn’t know any better before that I had a choice. Otherwise I would have had a head start in doing stuff I truly wanted in life.

My Three (3) Regrets

When deciding which tertiary course to enrol in, I was influenced by the rest to study one that is in high demand so that I could be assured of a stable job after I graduate. And so, I chose Information Technology because it was a blooming industry then. Although I was very interested in the field of biology and of psychology; something totally different from my choice.

Right up to my 30s, I forced myself to practice my religion while struggling to make sense of its teachings. I always felt conflicted within while trying to maintain its religious practices, such as when I’m at the places of worship trying to do a prayer. A terrible feeling to endure each time. “What a waste of my time and energy”, I would be thinking.

Speaking of which, I also regret wasting my resources on dating, trying to find suitable prospects, so that I can settle down and imitate what people usually do. In fact, I was never interested in such committed relationships, in having family or kids, or in sacrificing my freedom which was so important to me.

I can’t take those times back. And now, I can be grateful that I am creating a new life, one for my true self.

When I started gaining clarity of my values and beliefs, that led to my understanding of what I want in my life. I dared to defy the norm when it means doing justice to my values and beliefs. I was at peace with myself and shielded from any social rules. MindValley’s Vishen Lakhiani terms these as “Brules” in his, The Code of Extraordinary Mind.

Ponder this

And we’ve got only one life to love wholly and live fully. Why waste it being miserable, constrained and suffocated? It’s fine to have a regular risk-free life. Unless, deep inside, you are not truly happy with the life you’ve accepted. Then, it’s not wrong when you Defy the Norm. Just ensure to do an ecology check first. I.e. consider the consequences for you, for others, and for the environment before you choose a course of action.

I confess, to Defy the Norm isn’t easy in all aspects. It’s natural for you to lack clarity, feel lost, or seek guidance in your journey of life. The fact is… nothing changes if you choose to do nothing or choose not to change anything.

When you have identified what an ideal life means to you; when you understand what you want to experience; you will be motivated because you can’t imagine not wanting such a life after you already know what it is.

Are you Game?

What are you waiting for? It’s never too late to change the path you are on.

Dare to be Different. Defend your Beliefs. Defy the Norm. If you want to make that change, connect with me and let’s converse.

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