Trying to be unique in a world that embraces the cookie-cutter aesthetic is trying, at best. You are a unique individual who can be anything you want to be at any point in time. Sometimes, you are one thing, but most of the time, you are a multi-faceted, singular being who wants to be different from the norm because you are. At the same time, you do not care to be put into a box or labeled. Those acts become too much, and the pressure mounts daily to continue to present yourself to the world in the manner others expect you to. Make a change, starting today, and be the person you want to be by expressing your inner self in whatever way it manifests on a given day. Here are a few ideas to begin.

Explore Music from Your Present and Past

Music is the ultimate form of self-expression. From creating it to listening to the downbeat and the mood-altering vocals to walking through life and hearing the music of the world around you that includes everything from what is playing in the elevator to the tune coming out of the phone while you are on hold, music is a telling tapestry in this world.

Find new ways to be you and embrace your musical history. Look at music born from the post-punk record label genre. It moves beyond the inception of punk rock into something new with a reimagined style. If you are already well-acquainted with this particular category, take a step back into its innovative sounds. Let the music wash over you as you fit your mood on any particular day to the feelings the musicians evoke in your mind.

If you are of a certain age, you may have been listening to music since the days of vinyl, or maybe you are more of a digital native. If you can see your life curated in your Spotify playlists and history, go back through the archives of your musical life. Press play on tracks from your past and experience the feelings of nostalgia wash over your mind and body. Let the memories come back to you while you listen.

As you move through your personal music genres, look at what you like to listen to. Pay attention to the similarities as well as the differences. Begin looking for music beyond whatever the algorithms tell you to push play on next. Of course, some of that music is really good, but this is a chance to be an individual and explore other musical niches that you have ignored or not been exposed to in the past.

Walk into a music store. Ask the proprietor for recommendations or exchange playlists with a friend to learn about a new artist. The idea is to embrace different music based on what you feel and express your identity instead of letting others speak for you based on your generation label.

Try on a New Hairstyle

The way you cut, color, and style your hair is another profound way to show the world your individuality. The great thing about your hair is that you can change it almost as easily as your wardrobe. Use a temporary color to achieve a look for the summer or just a concert. Go for a bolder statement with a permanent dye job if you choose. On any given day, you can style your locks to create a statement.

Watch this video on how to create a variety of hairstyles. There is even a way to create bangs when you have long hair without cutting it, which proves you can change how you express your individuality based on how you want to present to the world.

Rethink Your Wardrobe

The act of expressing your individuality through clothing is not a new concept, but it might be for you. Even if you have dabbled in changing your wardrobe with your ages and stages in life, you can always do something different. Whether you wake up one morning feeling a bit of ennui and moodiness or experience a burst of energy with the rising sun, you can dress for your emotions or activities without having to be put in a box regarding how you label your style.

Consider whether you need or would like new clothing. Shopping is fun. The act of buying something new can appeal to your inner satisfaction. It is okay to indulge those wants if that is right for you. Instead of heading to the (still present) shopping mall or (more likely) going online to add a few things to your cart before clicking the purchase button, make an internal paradigm shift and go to your local thrift stores. They are not only trendy as of late, they are fun little treasure hunts that you can take yourself on.

Look for thrift items in good condition that speak to you. You will find more distinctive pieces at a second-hand clothing store than in a regular clothing store’s inventory. There may be a bright blue peacoat that no one else will own in this decade. Or maybe an array of pre-worn black jeans that speak to your post-punk musical preferences. Select items you do not usually try and experience the sartorial arts in a new way.

When you return home from your shopping trip, lay out your new clothing once after laundering. Next, it is time to shop your closet. Take a look at what you already own with fresh eyes. Think of how you can wear your current clothing with your new ones. If you have a great blazer that goes unworn, pull it out and pair it with a new pair of jeans and a t-shirt from your favorite band. The idea is to mix and match your clothing and accessories until you find one-of-a-kind ways to express your originality.

The world around you is loud and always on. It can be difficult to stand out amongst the masses. Look for music that moves you and acts as a vehicle to express who you are in that moment. Try a new hairstyle and color that evokes a particular mood. Create a statement with what you wear. As for tomorrow, you can make a new statement in a whole new way if you want to.

Express Your Individuality - Find New Ways To Be You