Many artists and inventors have been eccentric individuals, and their authenticity has led to numerous innovations that still benefit us today. You might be a bit disorganized, unique, quirky, and unusual. In a world that often values harmony and uniformity, embracing eccentricity can be a challenge. It represents a quality of unconventional and distinctive behavior. Recall some individuals throughout history who lived and expressed themselves authentically. This choice led them to further develop creativity, innovation, and life resilience.
In the following article, Sean Grover, an American psychotherapist, provides three reasons that demonstrate why it’s perfectly fine, even beneficial, to be an eccentric person.
What does eccentric mean exactly?
- My quest for clarity on this term led me to a series of intertwined, confusing, and sometimes uneven definitions. According to the Oxford Dictionary, an eccentric person is one with an unconventional and somewhat strange perspective or behavior. The definition of strange is essentially departing from the usual or expected – explains psychotherapist Grover.
Authenticity is a Virtue
You will stand out and be noticed if you are authentic because there’s less likelihood you’ll adhere to societal norms and expectations. Additionally, you’ll be freed from fears and anxieties about what others think of you. While eccentricity might be entirely natural and inherent for some, others become that way over time.
- Aging well means becoming more oneself and being less concerned with the opinions of others – stated Louis Ormont, a father of American group therapy.
In other words, aging well brings greater emotional and psychological freedom. You’re less likely to judge others, and more likely to approach life with openness, curiosity, and positivity.
Three signs you’re eccentric
Whether you already know you’re eccentric or are questioning while reading, here are a few signs that indicate you’re on the path to eccentricity:
- You’re not interested in following trends – the latest fashion, musical trends, or entertainment norms don’t interest you. You follow your passions, unaffected by societal pressure.
- You’re not afraid to be different – being authentic means being free from others’ opinions. It means walking through this world unencumbered and independent.
- You attract detractors – sadly, but truthfully. Some individuals simply don’t enjoy being around eccentrics. Perhaps because they feel threatened by someone who challenges their beliefs and goes against societal norms. Rather than delving deeper into themselves to question the true cause of their animosity, they’ll opt for the path of least resistance and redirect blame onto you.
Loving yourself
Three significant advantages of being an eccentric person are as follows:
- Less social anxiety – the less you worry about societal norms, the less you’re concerned about judgments or rejection.
- Greater comfort level – you genuinely enjoy being in your own skin and don’t dwell too much on others’ perceptions or criticisms.
- Original thinker – history is replete with eccentric individuals who were exceptional leaders, inventors, and artists. Therefore, when someone calls you eccentric, thank them.
