“Being Different” is something some people find interesting and some find a little weird, depending on what it is. When you think of being different, you think of physical or genetic traits. When I think of being different, I think of how people think, where they’re from, what or who they like, or even as minor as how they dress. Being different can be a number of things.

If you think you’re NOT different, you need to rethink that whole thought because everyone is different in their own way. If you don’t know how you are different, you just need to take some time to get to know yourself and what makes you different. As teenagers our hormones are going crazy, we’re extremely emotional about the smallest things, and have stupid insecurities, and theses insecurities are actually what make us different. Like the great author Maya Angelou said “If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”

Some good things about being different are that some people might like the things that make you different, and it draws attention to you. You can connect better with people when you don’t have a lot of things in common, which will make them want to continue the conversation so you can try to find some things in common. If you don’t, that’s ok, everyone doesn’t have to have a lot in common to be friends. Being different will give you a different perspective on how you see people and situations, so when you are getting to know someone you’ll see things with an open mind.

If you have a difference that you don’t like, it’s best to embrace it and walk with confidence. Once you accept it and love it, no one will be able to tell you anything because you don’t need their approval. In my opinion you shouldn’t care what someone thinks of you because if you’re okay with it, there should be no second guessing or doubts For example, when I wasn’t open about my sexuality (even though it was pretty obvious) the only major thing I was scared of was my mom not accepting me, but once I told her, it was like a big weight lifted off my shoulders. At that point and time, you couldn’t tell me anything and still can’t until this day because I‘m okay with my differences, and I accept myself.