Who are you?

“No one ever made a difference being like everyone else” – PT Barnum

You are special. You are weird! You are unique. The characteristics that are your make up, has never been seen before, and will never be seen again. So why do we try so much to be like everybody else?

I’m sure you, like me, did everything you could to “fit in” as a teenager. I bought the same clothes and listened to the same music as my classmates. I watched the same TV shows and did the same activities. Celebrating differences and standing-out in a crowd wasn’t a teenage thing (not in Manchester anyway).

Nowadays, we are overloaded with brain-numbing information through TV and Social Media, both platforms creating a plethora of false idols, leading us to be more interested in other people’s lives than concentrating on improving our own. In doing this, we “fit in”. Many people I meet seem to have lost their sense of identity and individualism, and although they feel safe and comfortable within the apparent security that society provides; are they actually happy?

I believe that the first stage of true, authentic happiness is embracing (and being in love with) who YOU are. Once you let go of judgement you can then find balance; the balance between your mind, body and soul, which will in turn lead to balance between life and work.

Being happier and balanced will certainly set the foundations to be more successful in all areas of your life. That being said, when was the last time you sat in contemplation and asked:

·        Who am I?

·        What sets my soul on fire?

·        What do I love to do that I could do more of?

·        What are my interests?

·        Do I care too much about what other people think?

·        Am I creative enough?

·        Am I learning every day?

·        Where do I feel at home?

·        Do I go to the gym because I enjoy it or because I feel I have to go?

·        How much happiness do I get from taking pictures of my poached eggs and smashed avo?

And Me?

My personal journey over the past 2.5 years has been a roller-coaster (visa worries, setting up and running a business, chasing a girl around the world! etc), but an incredible amount of personal growth has lead to happiness and contentment. Relationships are key in my position and I have found that being honest and open about my life, my differences and weaknesses, has lead to more success in my profession. My advice, be genuine, authentic and to NOT be like anyone else.

So who am I? I'm 30. I rarely watch TV. I love being in fancy-dress at festivals; I play ice hockey, rock climb and I’m learning to swing dance. I love my friends, the outdoors, travelling the world and have cooked 4 meals in 12 months! I’m special, weird and unique, and that’s the way I like it!

So, what can you do to be more YOU?