Everyone has an idol that they look up to. A person that they consider to be their idol and have a strong belief, that someday, they will become like them and will have all the success just like their idol. All of this thinking is correct, all of the ideas are right but there is a certain limit to it.
You maybe thinking, what is the problem with that? Following someone you like is not a big deal. I agree that it is not, but there is a say ‘excess of anything can be harmful’. Let’s take an example, I idolize Priyanka Chopra. She I an Indian actress who is known globally as she has acted in several Bollywood films, acted in the famous show ‘Quantico’ and has also done two Hollywood films. I strongly stand by what she believes in about feminism and how our society should change. All of this is very inspirational, but following someone for their beliefs is different than thinking that I will become like Priyanka Chopra one day. You need to be realistic, back up and think, does the world need another Priyanka Chopra? Why would the world accept another version of the same thing? This is where the problem starts. Let’s get into the roots of the problem, hang in there, you will get your answers.

It’s good to stand out of the crowd, it shows who you are as a person!!
Being a part of the BIG COMMUNITY!!
We live in a society that is very diverse and each individual has a different set of values. This also means that each individual we meet in our daily lives has a different story and a different background. You may or may not believe in the things that your friend friend believes in. This is totally fine! Being on the opposite side of a topic is how we interact, the things that we never thought about are the things to consider while making a decision.
As humans, we are ‘social beings’, we have a very STRONG need to BELONG!!
We will do whatever it takes to be accepted as our biggest fear is to be ‘alone’ or to be considered ‘outcasts’ in our own society. This is the reason why we change ourselves and follow the societal norms. Following the norms is a great thing as it keeps the society in order. But not, when it comes to changing your own identity.
Who Are YOU?
Having a clear idea about who you are and what you stand for is the ‘key’ to your individuality. I understand that humans do not openly accept who they are because they are scared that they will not be accepted. But remember one thing, people who love and adore you, will stand by you no matter what. These people will be your well-wishers. These issues are huge and obvious when you live in a multicultural community, specially when you have multicultural friends.
With the issues being raised, there will be some norms or beliefs that you will be expected to believe in. Believing in the norms is alright, but if you notice that YOU are not being yourself, and you are acting like your friends or someone who is socially acceptable, be aware, there is a problem!!
Remember, people will like you for who you are, not what you follow, or behave like someone else. If you are being confused, back up and think…
Why do you follow a famous personality?
- They stand out of the crowd, their beliefs make you look up to them
- They are bold and confident enough to make their choices which are not socially acceptable. They own their decisions.
3. You like their work. They inspire you to work harder towards your goal.
What should you get out of this?
Let me be VERY clear. In order to survive in this society, I agree you need to follow the norms and respect the other person’s boundaries. But sometimes, if something does not make sense to you, ASK away!! After all, everyone has the equal right to ask questions.
You need to have a sense of individuality. You need to know yourself really well so that you don’t end up loosing yourself. Stay true to your thoughts and belief. Even if your friends do not agree with you. It can be for a number of reasons. All you need to think about is FORGET WHAT OTHERS WILL THINK!!
Remember, the person who loves you, will understand you and will stand by you. I agree, the society out there is not entirely fair. In this situation, instead of panicking all the negativity and letting it pile on your brain, you can LET IT GO!!
Another thing is, self-love. If you don’t love yourself, how can you expect others to love you? Therefore, you also need to be FEARLESS and CONFIDENT!! Who knows, the people looking at you might think, this is a quality that makes you stand out, why not make an effort to get to know him/her?
Don’t you agree?!
Please do let me know what you feel. All thoughts are welcome!!