‘Just be yourself’ is a very simple phrase for a somewhat challenging task.

All too often we spend much of our lives being what we thought we needed to be for a range of reasons.  By the end of the day, we don’t truly know who we really are.

Whether it’s believing something because we were raised in such a way, delivering the perfect response to acquire the job that we so desperately want, or simply behaving in a certain way to maintain a relationship with a partner. Maybe it’s wearing a certain ensemble because it’s the trend of the season and we want to fit in with everyone else.

So, what do we do?

We consciously manipulate ourselves to conform to what others would prefer us to be, or rather what we think others want us to be instead of just being who we are meant to be.

It’s called being a ‘follower’

To be a ‘follower’ is by far the line of least resistance; however, it most certainly isn’t a path that leads to contentment or fulfilment.

Think about it, each one of us is born with distinctive talents, gifts and skills, all of which are packaged with the details of our own rare physicality, family background and experience. So why are we so willing to let this amazing phenomenon be so swiftly cast aside so that we can look like, act like and be accepted like someone else?

Why indeed?  Quite simply, because it’s easier!

It’s much less painful if one is a teenager to do as the crowd does; it’s much less emotionally draining to be the ‘yes girl’ or ‘yes­ guy’ at work than to stand up and speak, and yes it’s considerably less agonising to be numbed by the incessant conversation and hoopla than to be uncomfortable in your own company.

So yes, people who haven’t found the strength or the direction instead decide to just go with the flow and play a role.

Regardless of what stage we are at in life, we really can create the life we want and become successful beyond our wildest dreams if we choose a path that is continually edging us closer toward our desired goal.

It all comes down to decisions, determination and discipline.

It is indeed a journey.

Just remember that the road will become less intimidating and the journey will become so much more magical and rewarding than anything you could have ever imagined or experienced.