There is a constant struggle that occurs in life, between what we want to do and what the world wants us to do. Since graduating from school, I have found myself feeling the tug of both sides tremendously. The pull is nonstop and leaves me torn. My head hurts and I am beyond confused by my own thinking, over thinking, and listening to the opinion of others.

We do not realize the demands that society places on us before we’ve had a chance to take a breath in this world. People will say “he’s probably going to be tall like his father,” or “I bet she’ll have hair like her mother,” or “he’s so active already, he’s going to be all over the place.” There is a constant push to be the best, make the grade, go faster, be stronger, smarter, more charismatic or wittier than the next individual. I was pushed to be quiet, to speak up, to participate, to laugh, to cry, to envy–I wanted that hair, those clothes, and the pretty pink Barbie convertible because that is what I was taught to value.

Now, there is no one person or medium to blame, because we all contribute to the societal push even now. We are influenced by the decisions of others, their appearances, what they say, where they stand on an issue and we conform to it or are unconsciously persuaded to think a certain way, doubt ourselves, and compare ourselves to others. We feel the pressure to be more advanced in technology, to explore space, to get the most subscribers on YouTube or digital song downloads.

We like what we like, but that doesn’t mean our opinions should push it on anyone else. We should be conscious of how our words, thoughts, and actions can influence those around us. We should strive to think for ourselves, consider our own thoughts and feelings and not be dissuaded or persuaded by some influence alone.

Next time someone tells you to do or be something. Think to yourself: Is this really what I want for my life? How is this going to affect me? Be your own person and be aware of the influences over your life and how you influence others.