The ease of conforming

Isn’t if funny how easy it is to blend in and follow the pack. Lately I’ve noticed groups of teenage girls all wearing identical clothing and I had to think back to what I was like at that age. Probably the same, because let’s face it, it’s easier to follow the norm than break out and go it alone.

This can be said for most things in life from clothing to education, friendships and even life choices. Most of my friends went straight from high school to university then into their careers, while I fast-tracked my degree before heading overseas where I stayed until I used up every work-abroad option available to me. When I returned home my friends were established and I had nothing tangible to show for the years in between, but man was I happy!

I then started looking for work and a place to live, feeling somehow like I’d fallen in line with everyone else, while at the same time not feeling like everyone else who were now in a different position than I was. What that did was open me up to new people and new experiences in my hometown, leading me to find a new tribe that fit with the person I found myself to be.

Fast forward 20 years and I feel like I’m going through a similar process, jumping ship while everyone waves from the safety of the boat wondering what I think I can possibly do on my own, moving in a different direction. But maybe this is just my next exciting journey, off to explore the possibilities of taking a risk and looking for something better.

On bad days I wonder if I shouldn’t have stayed on that safe path, seeing my future before me, straight and clear. On good days I wake up and face the day with excitement, wondering what’s going to cross my path or present itself in a way that makes me sit up and pay attention, look into something new or change direction all together.

I guess that’s the choice – stay the course with a life you know or jump ship and look for a new adventure. What are you going to do? What feels right for you in 2024?