- By Syeda Nameera Hasan
#SELFMUSING
By Syeda Nameera Hasan
How’s life treating you these days—challenging or manageable? It’s often not easy to respond immediately to such queries, even to your own thoughts, as you cling to that glimmer of hope that has gotten you this far. So, let’s ditch the “nice-to-see-you” platitude routine of selfmusing, and let’s have a conversation that actually matters. And by that, I mean to be true to yourself and think beyond what people think of you.
Regretfully, we have been living our lives dependent on the approval of others. We need others to dictate to us how we should behave or how we should look. Too fat, too skinny, too dark, too fair, too tall, too short, too extroverted, too introverted, too talkative, too arrogant—this TOO ANYTHING is the issue that compels people to align themselves to the so-called beauty standards, which are nothing more than a myth made up by our society that doesn’t even give a damn about you. Step out of this marathon of being perfect; instead, be true to yourself!
The dilemma of discovering your true self in the abyss of uncharted horizons is a relentless quest. Every day is a never-ending struggle to find your authentic self. Though this route is difficult and full of uncertainties, it bears knowledge of not just the world and its tactics. You come across a “new-old” version of yourself that is unrestricted by people’s perspectives and societal norms. This version of yourself has always existed, but it is concealed in self-doubts and insecurities gifted by society.
Personally, I used to believe that the two most effective life skills that could lead you to an easy way out were silence and smiling. But through it all, I was alone, sad, and disappointed since all I was doing was smiling and putting on a disguise. I soon realized that I am caged in people’s perceptions, which is choking me, and that’s when I stepped on this never-ending journey.
It’s never too late to retrace your steps back on the right path, the one that leads you toward the only true way. The destination has not changed; the path has changed. And accepting this change doesn’t mean you have given up; it’s rather a demonstration of wisdom. Even if it is riddled with thorns and obstacles, it is the right route. Without difficulties, the value of any worthwhile goal is diminished.
As you progress down this path, you must learn to accept your flaws, fears, and deepest desires as essential components of your true self. Whether you are of any shape, size, or complexion, find happiness in your own skin. You’ll get compared easily to others, being forced to morph into someone you are not, risking the disappearance of your true essence. Stop molding yourself into someone you are not. If your fear is that “life will be nothing but a series of rejections if you don’t follow these meaningless rules”? It’s preferable to experience rejection from others than to face yourself in the mirror every day with sympathy and contempt. In the end, it’s just a costume that you are wearing. Let go of your disguise and embrace who you really are to find inner peace, no matter what other people think.
“The greatest discovery in life is self-discovery. Until you find yourself, you will always be someone else. Become yourself.”
Each one of us has our own book. Good books are meant to be read and remembered forever! Let’s read the books of our lives once again from where we left off. Surely, we will come across a few of those words and lines that we ignored early! Let’s underline those and find their true meanings! Let’s finish this book and start all over again! NEW BEGINNING, NEW DETERMINATION, NEW DEDICATION!
“Dearest Future Me,
I’m not sure what lies ahead, but I do know that you’re doing fantastic! When things get tough in life, read this letter for once! No matter what challenges lie ahead, always remember how far you have come and how capable you are. Believe in yourself and your unique abilities. Embrace both the good and bad times with happiness, as you deserve all the joy in the world. Take care of your heart and surround yourself with sincere, caring people who bring you joy. You have accomplished so much, so be proud and continue spreading happiness to others.
Love always,
Your young self.
