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In the humdrum of daily life, amid the surge of societal expectations, and the shadows cast by media portrayals, there is a profound power in the act of simply ‘being’. It’s an assertion of one’s authenticity against the torrent of external influences that constantly beckon us to morph, to adjust, to blend in. As succinctly stated, “Just being by itself is a strength. Congratulate yourself on that. For many, and everyone from time to time, being oneself is hard, and it’s a constant struggle and everyone is the same.”

In an age where mental health challenges, particularly depression, are prevalent, recognizing and valuing the act of maintaining one’s true self is crucial. It’s a testament to one’s resilience and strength.

1. The Challenge of Authenticity in a Conforming World

Dr. Brené Brown, a researcher and storyteller, delves deeply into the complexities of vulnerability and authenticity in her book, “The Gifts of Imperfection”. She argues that to be truly authentic, one has to be vulnerable. Yet vulnerability is often perceived as weakness in our society. To be oneself, to expose one’s true thoughts, feelings, and desires can open us to ridicule, judgment, or alienation. It’s a brave act, then, to stand firm in one’s identity amidst such threats.

2. The Homogenization of Identity Through Social Media

With the advent of social media, personal lives have become public performances. The ‘curated self’— a filtered, more socially acceptable version of oneself— is what is most often presented. In “Reclaiming Conversation: The Power of Talk in a Digital Age”, Sherry Turkle discusses the erosion of genuine human connection as we retreat behind screens and craft idealized online personas. The pressure to fit into a template can be immense, making the act of being authentic a genuine struggle.

3. The Strength Derived From Authenticity

Despite these challenges, there’s an underlying strength derived from authenticity. As Ralph Waldo Emerson once penned in his essay “Self-Reliance”, “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” Every time an individual resists the urge to conform or suppress their true feelings, they engage in an act of rebellion, a silent protest against the stifling norms of society.

4. The Mental Health Implications of Suppressed Identity

“Man is not what he thinks he is, he is what he hides,” wrote André Malraux, hinting at the psychological toll of suppressing one’s true identity. Research suggests that incongruence between one’s inner self and the self presented to the world can lead to heightened stress, anxiety, and depression. The consistent strain of maintaining a facade can be exhausting and emotionally draining.

5. The Universal Struggle for Authenticity

While the struggle to maintain one’s authenticity might seem a personal battle, it’s a universal experience. As highlighted, everyone, at some point or another, wrestles with societal expectations and personal desires. Reading Herman Hesse’s “Steppenwolf” gives us an insight into the inner turmoil of a man torn between his own duality and the demands of society.

6. Celebrating the Simple Act of Being

So, in a world rife with challenges to our identity, the simple act of ‘being’ becomes a profound achievement. Every day one remains true to themselves, they reaffirm their strength and resilience. This is not a call to eschew societal norms or live in complete isolation. Instead, it’s a plea to recognize and celebrate the small victories we achieve when we choose authenticity over conformity.

7. The Road Ahead

As more individuals awaken to the importance of mental well-being and the value of authenticity, there’s hope that societal perspectives will shift. By emphasizing the significance of simply ‘being’ and supporting each other in our quests for authenticity, society can become a more understanding, compassionate, and enriching place.

In conclusion, in a world where the act of ‘being’ is fraught with challenges, it’s important to recognize the strength inherent in authenticity. As we navigate the complexities of life, it’s essential to remember that there’s value in simply being true to oneself. And for that, every individual deserves recognition and commendation.

Introduction:

In the realm of human experience, the qualities of strength, resilience, and determination have long been celebrated. While these characteristics are often associated with physical prowess and martial prowess, being a warrior encompasses a broader meaning. It encapsulates the unwavering spirit of individuals who rise, time and again, despite daunting circumstances. True warriors are those who refuse to succumb to the weight of their fears and obstacles, embodying the essence of courage. As Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong it is until it’s in hot water.” This quote beautifully captures the essence of what it means to be a warrior.

“Being a warrior is someone who gets up, even when they cannot”:

To be a warrior is to possess an indomitable spirit that propels one forward, even in the face of adversity. It goes beyond physical strength, requiring mental and emotional fortitude to rise above challenging circumstances. Sometimes, life throws us into situations where we feel overwhelmed, drained, or disheartened. It is during these moments that the true essence of being a warrior reveals itself.

Consider Viktor Frankl’s poignant memoir, “Man’s Search for Meaning,” which chronicles his experiences as a Holocaust survivor. Frankl faced unimaginable suffering and loss, yet he found meaning and purpose in the midst of despair. He became a warrior of the mind, mustering the strength to rise above his circumstances and inspire others to do the same. Frankl’s ability to find resilience amidst unspeakable horrors showcases the embodiment of a true warrior—one who gets up, even when they cannot.

“Courage is about doing with fear”:

Courage, often portrayed as the absence of fear, is actually about taking action in the face of fear. Being fearless is an unrealistic expectation, as fear is an innate human emotion. Instead, true courage lies in acknowledging one’s fears and pushing through them to achieve a greater purpose or goal. Renowned author and philosopher Paulo Coelho, in his novel “The Alchemist,” beautifully encapsulates this sentiment: “Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. And that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams because every second of the search is a second’s encounter with God and with eternity.”

An exemplary real-life illustration of courage in the face of fear can be found in the life of Malala Yousafzai, the youngest Nobel laureate. Malala, as a young advocate for girls’ education in Pakistan, faced death threats from the Taliban. Despite the danger and the constant fear she experienced, she continued to fight for her cause with unwavering determination. Malala’s courage to speak out against oppression, even in the face of grave danger, epitomizes the essence of being a warrior—doing with fear and standing up for what one believes in.

Conclusion:

Being a warrior is not confined to the battlefield or physical combat. It extends beyond the realm of martial prowess to encompass the resilience, strength, and courage to rise above adversity. The true essence of a warrior lies in their ability to get up, even when they cannot, and to confront their fears head-on. As exemplified by the writings of authors like Viktor Frankl and Paulo Coelho and the lives of individuals like Malala Yousafzai, being a warrior is about harnessing the power of courage to triumph over challenges and inspire others to do the same. In a world where obstacles are inevitable, let us strive to be warriors who embrace fear, confront adversity, and emerge victorious.