Being yourself is something we’ve been told since kindergarten. It’s one of the main pillars we still retain from such a young part in our lives, and it’s something we remind each other. But in recent years, I’ve noticed a trend of people not being authentically themselves—especially in a time where we want to “blend in” and “fit in” to certain crowds that might not interest us at all. So today, I want to talk about how being yourself is the most unique thing you can simply do.

“Well, what is being yourself?” It’s simple: it’s representing the foundation of what makes up you. Whatever your interests are—from fashion to music—always leave a lasting impact on you, and it’s your job to let those show. Hiding your true self from those around you can cause more harm than good, like distrust and skepticism from friends and/or family.

“How can I be myself?” Some think it’s easy, some think it’s hard. Being yourself has levels, so you can start at level one and work your way up to maybe level ten or even further. What matters is how comfortable you get with yourself and being true to you. You can be slightly comfortable with the idea of self expression but not completely, which is why slowly working your way up to completely is another route if you can’t dive straight into it.

“But what if people hate me for what I like?” Unless it’s inherently weird, then let people hate. Their opinions shouldn’t make you change what you like. If you like K-Pop, Rock, Alternative—anything besides standard music, mainly for western audiences, then like it. If you appreciate ballroom culture in LGBT spaces, then appreciate it. If you love stuff that not everyone likes, then love it. Nobody’s stopping you from being yourself besides you holding yourself back.