Trying to be Normal rarely succeeds, Meaning – Maya Angelou

In this article, we explore the meaning of trying to be normal in reference to Maya Angelou’s quote. Topics covered include the need for normalcy, distractions and the importance of your individuality. In this, discussion, we talk about the cultural training of normalisation, pressures to blend into the society while balancing your core values.

We also talk about the necessity to break the mould and above all, feeling comfortable and confident about who you are. In the end, it is all about giving yourself the opportunity to explore the true potential. 

If you’re always trying to be normal you will never know how amazing you can be.

Maya Angelou

I’m a huge fan of Maya Angelou quotes for the simplicity and depth in each one of them. Today as we touch upon this quote – we will explore the WHY and WHY NOT?

If you’re always trying to be normal you will never know how amazing you can be

In a society with billions of people, why are we always expected to behave a certain way, eat a certain food and speak a certain language? The answer is simplicity – it makes society wholly predictable and people are rarely afraid of what is predictable. Although I can see the logic of a society or a group being predictable, I do hate the fact that it extends to an individual sense or a personal construct.

If we are born to be similar and the same as a society, there is no concept of individuality. As much as there’s a need to be a part of society, it cannot be at the cost of your core values and beliefs. When you see these in conflict with society, it is a signal for you to think about your approach. Do you want to be a part of a society where your core values don’t flourish?

If you’re expected to sacrifice your individuality, where do you go in the long run? What happens to your thoughts, values and dreams? Would you not be just the same as everyone and everything else? There’s nothing wrong, but the question is whether you truly want it?

Trying to be normal amongst other people and the crowd

I feel like a tried and tested cliche talking about being different in a world that is trying to make you like yourself. I am sure you’ve heard this over and over again and yet there’s a constant pariah on someone who tries to be different. Society has a way of being afraid of change and at the same time yearning a change. I suppose it is nothing more than a mere liar at times making you believe that you are less than what you can be.

If that’s the case, why do we have to let the general construct or belief affect the true internal self? If we are in this world to be the same as everyone else, we’ll need to find a way to be comfortable with it. However, even if a small part of you believes that trying to be normal in a world where your difference is a necessity, then you’re certainly the one who needs to take charge and make that difference.

References:

https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/700564-if-you-are-always-trying-to-be-normal-you-will