Written By: Shayanika Suresh
I often catch myself saying “I don’t care what people think, I’m going to do what I feel like doing!” But lately, I’ve been thinking. When we say that, do we actually mean that? In a world dominated by divisions, of race, class, sex and gender, do we not care what people think when we measure ourselves by these standards that have been prescribed for us by the society that we live in? When we dress in brand-named clothing and carry ourselves with grace and flair, are we not thinking about what people will think of us? When we practice etiquette at the dining table, are we not trying to maintain a certain image? Consciously and unconsciously, we are constantly trying to fit into a particular mold. We are always trying to impress others, and we yearn for compliments on a daily basis. Be it a friend, partner or spouse, we seek to be flattered, to be praised. Then, how can we say that we don’t care what others think?
If we are to agree that we do care what others think, another question swiftly arises. Are our words and actions then moulded by what others think? Do we always make decisions in order to please people? In my opinion, that cannot be the case. Yes, we do reflect on what others might say or think with regards to our words, actions and decisions, but we do not make our choice solely based on this reflection. There are many occasions, I find, when we act in contrary to what other people think, solely because we feel like doing something else. But is individual choice guaranteed to win every time? Or are we in denial of how much of an impact a third person’s perception of us can have on us, as individuals?
CTYA’s Blog has started a new feature every Thursday called ‘Thoondal’, meaning inspiration, stimulation, or inducement. Through these weekly features, the author hopes to inspire you, stimulate your senses and induce you to think deeply about the topics she addresses and finally, to use those thoughts to inspire many more wonderful youth like you.
About the Author:
Shayanika Suresh is a Law Graduate currently working on establishing her legal career. She is also a passionate writer and has self-published a collection of short stories, “Lips no longer sealed”. Shayanika’s passion to raise awareness of various social issues that affect individuals and society as a whole is evident in her work, leaving a message for the reader to take home.
