What does it mean to be “yourself” in a world full of expectations

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
Ralph Waldo Emerson

In a society constantly filled with standards of success, it’s easy to feel like we’re constantly trying to keep up with what others think we should be. As students, we face pressures from all directions—academic expectations, career goals, social media and family ideals. But what does it really mean to ‘be yourself’ when the world seems to have its own agenda for who you should be?

In a quest for answers, I spoke with several students from various backgrounds to gain insight into how they navigate staying true to themselves, while managing societal pressures. Here’s what they had to say about their struggle and strategies to live authentically:

Set boundaries

Ian Quinn Cerrada, a Business Marketing student, has learned the importance of setting clear boundaries to stay true to himself. He explains that it’s essential to say no when something doesn’t align with his values. By drawing these boundaries, he is able to focus on what truly matters to him.

Cerrada found that post-secondary life’s demands can be overwhelming – with social events, extra responsibilities and academic pressures. By setting boundaries, he’s been able to protect his time and focus on what brings him fulfillment.

His approach to boundaries is simple: plan ahead, communicate limits clearly, and say no without guilt.

“Being intentional with my boundaries is like giving myself permission to be authentic,” Cerrada said, as he acknowledged that setting limits enables him to prioritize his needs and aspirations.

Surround yourself with support

Genevie Aunor, from the Advertising and Graphic Design program, believes a supportive network is key, especially in a field where vulnerability matters. She feels more confident and willing to take creative risks when surrounded by people who encourage her authenticity.

Aunor emphasized the importance of surrounding yourself with people who truly support and celebrate your individuality. She believes that feeling accepted in a community makes it easier to embrace your authentic self.

Aunor also believes that building relationships that value diversity and individuality is key to staying true to yourself.

“It’s not just about fitting in; it’s about finding people who make you feel like you belong, just as you are,” Aunor said.

As part of fostering support and leadership within the community, IGNITE offers the Black Excellence Scholarship, which recognizes and uplifts outstanding students from the Black community who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and support. It highlights the power of being yourself to inspire others and foster empowerment within the community.

If you’re a student from this community who embodies these qualities, we encourage you to apply for the scholarship from Jan. 31 to Feb. 28. Don’t miss the chance to be recognized for your leadership and impact!

Prioritize self-reflection

Jesseryn Coronado, a second-year Computer Programming student, highlights how important regular self-reflection is in maintaining a connection to your authentic self. Reflecting on her thoughts, emotions and actions helps her stay grounded amid post-secondary chaos.

Coronado practices self-reflection daily, using methods like journaling, meditating and spending time in nature to reconnect with herself. In a fast-paced environment, she uses self-reflection to reconnect with her inner voice and focus on what truly matters.

She also encourages others to adopt a simple and consistent self-reflection routine, even if it’s just for a few minutes each day.

“Checking in with yourself makes a huge difference,” Coronado said. A habitual self-check-up helps her manage stress, clarify goals and stay connected to what brings her happiness.

Embrace your quirks

Hxlarisse Alyana Idala, a second-year Business Management student, stresses the importance of embracing the quirks that make you different. She believes that the things others might view as “uncool” or unusual are often the traits that define your uniqueness and help you stay authentic.

Idala recalled how, in the past, she hesitated to fully embrace her quirky interests, like indie films and unconventional poetry, because she feared judgment. But upon enrolling in a creative writing elective, she found a community that celebrated her unique perspectives. This shift allowed her to become more confident in pursuing her passions without worrying about fitting in with mainstream ideals.

She encourages others to stop hiding the aspects of themselves they think are strange or out of place.

“The things that make you different are often the things that make you shine,” Idala said and pointed out that creativity and authenticity often arise from embracing what sets you apart, no matter how unconventional it may seem.

Tune out the noise

Ridhima Nagpal is taking the Advertising and Marketing Communications program. She highlights the importance of tuning out the noise of social media and societal expectations. Nagpal acknowledges that in today’s digital age, it’s easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others, but she believes that authenticity is found by letting go of these comparisons.

Nagpal has learned to resist the urge to measure her worth against the curated successes she sees online. Social media, with its constant stream of highlight reels and idealized lives, can easily make anyone feel inadequate. Nagpal has found that stepping back and focusing on her own journey, rather than comparing herself to others, is key to remaining true to herself.

Her strategy for staying grounded is to limit her social media consumption and to be mindful of the content she engages with.

“I follow accounts that inspire me – not ones that make me feel like I’m falling behind,” Nagpal said.

Through curating her online space to reflect her own values, Nagpal is able to focus on what truly resonates with her, helping her stay authentic in the face of constant external pressure.

Be you, unapologetically

A note with several adjectives about yourself. — *Via GIPHY*

For students, being yourself in a world full of expectations can feel daunting, but it’s one of the most empowering things you can do. It’s about defining success on your own terms, setting your own path, and embracing the imperfections that make you unique. The world doesn’t need another version of someone else—it needs you, exactly as you are.

As our conversations with students have shown, embracing authenticity isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. It’s about carving out space for your true self, even when the world pressures you to conform. So the next time you find yourself questioning whether you’re enough, remember that your individuality is your superpower. Own it, unapologetically.

One powerful way to embrace your authenticity is by connecting with others who inspire and uplift you. That’s why we’re excited to invite you to the upcoming IGNITE’s Celebrating Black Excellence event at Humber Polytechnic! This event highlights the unmatched brilliance of the Black community through artistry, achievements and inspiration. Bring your friends and discover excellence on Feb. 5, in the Student Centre at the North campus, and Feb. 6, on the second floor of the L building at the Lakeshore campus. Don’t miss this chance to celebrate culture, creativity and community.

Got any go-to ways you stay true to yourself, even when the world feels overwhelming? Share your thoughts with us @shareignite. We’d love to hear how you embrace your authenticity!

Feature image courtesy of Amir Geshani via Unsplash.

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