"L'originalité est vraiment importante."

Originality is what sets you apart in a world where everyone seems to be following the same trends. It’s that unique spark that makes you, well, you. Think about it: we live in a society where it's easy to get lost in the sea of sameness. From fashion to business ideas, there's a lot of mimicry going on. But when you come up with something original, it's like a breath of fresh air. People notice.

Take the late 1990s, for instance. The tech world was buzzing with new developments, but most companies were essentially doing the same thing. Then, a small company called Google came along. They didn’t just create another search engine; they redefined how we access information. Their originality wasn't just in the algorithm they used, but in their entire approach to organizing the world’s information. Fast forward to today, and Google has become a verb. "Just Google it"—how’s that for impact?

Now, how do you bring originality into your own life? Let’s dive into a practical example. Imagine you're in a job interview. The interviewer asks you the usual question: "What's your biggest strength?" Most candidates will respond with well-worn answers like "I'm a team player" or "I have a strong work ethic." But what if you said, "I'm incredibly curious and I love solving puzzles"? Then, you share a story about how you solved a complex problem at your last job by looking at it from a completely different angle. Not only do you stand out, but you also leave a lasting impression.

So, how do you tap into your originality? Start by embracing your quirks. Those little things that make you different are your secret weapons. If you’re a graphic designer who loves comic books, let that influence your work. Your designs will have a unique flair that others can't replicate because they aren't you.

Or think about this scenario: you're at a party, and everyone’s talking about the latest Netflix series. You could join in, sure. But instead, you share an interesting story about a book you recently read—one that isn't on the bestseller list but had a profound impact on you. Suddenly, the conversation shifts, and people are intrigued. They want to know more about this book and your thoughts on it. You’ve just turned a mundane conversation into something memorable because you dared to be original.

The bottom line is, don’t be afraid to stand out. It’s tempting to blend in, especially when you’re in a new environment or meeting new people. But your originality is what will make you unforgettable. Whether it's at work, in social situations, or in your creative projects, let your true self shine through. The world doesn't need another carbon copy; it needs you—just the way you are.

So next time you’re tempted to follow the crowd, take a step back. Ask yourself, "What can I do that's uniquely me?" Then go ahead and do it. You might be surprised at how much of an impact you can make just by being yourself.