I have spent so much time trying to look like others and have not invested enough time in knowing myself. Hard to believe, right? But it’s true. If I had known myself the way I do today, I would have probably done so much more. But what does it mean to ‘know yourself’ or rather to know how different you are from others? 

We live in a world of trends, fashion, and lingo. We try so much, without even noticing, to fit in by how we speak, dress, and act. We are all part of the human family, and I am not about to recommend some weirdo like behaviour. Instead, in all things, remember that we are all different and have unique assignments/purposes in life. Embracing this as a fact of life brings comfort and peace. You are not always going to be on the same bus with your friends or in the same room. That is ok and at times necessary. Avoid being part of the crowd just for the sake of fitting in. Instead, gravitate towards self-discovery. What are the clues for this? It’s the things that you do without really thinking about them. Picking up a book, not because you have been asked to read. Fixing a mess that others are ignoring. Finding yourself looking for a sketchbook or app so that you can colour. Not taking sides in an argument but instead trying to defuse the situation. Choosing the Bible over other books. Singing when not prompted. Itching for a run when everyone else wants to sleep. These are all pointers to who you can potentially be. But they may not necessarily be with your friends. So instead, you may find yourself fitting in but still wishing that maybe you could have curled up with a book. 

It helps to ask yourself one question- would I be doing this if it had not been for my parents or friends asking me to? If the answer is a slow no or a maybe, then it’s probably not your thing. Find your difference. What brings you excitement? What would you love to do, but always find that there is not enough time to do it? That could be your difference. Save yourselves time, discover who you are now, and your lives will be full of joy.