Willing to stand out

“You’ve got to be willing sometimes to stand alone. You’ve got to be willing to piss some people off. You’ve got to be willing to look different. Sound different. Be different. And those are risks that many of us are not willing to take.” ~Iyanla Vanzant

Human beings are hard-wired to belong. We need to feel accepted by a group or a family. We need a tribe. Paradoxically, each of us also has a different set of experiences and personal opinions. As we mature, especially, we value authenticity — and individuality — in ourselves and others.

So, what really happens when you say or do something that goes against the grain of your group, your tribe? Do you feel safe being different or expressing an opposing opinion? Are you respected or rejected? As today’s quote suggests, sometimes you have to be willing to stand out, or stand alone. Would you take that risk? ~CL