"Do not be awe struck by other people and try to copy them Nobody can be you as efficiently as you can"

You know, it’s funny how we often find ourselves looking at others, maybe our friends, celebrities, or colleagues, and thinking, "Wow, they really have it all together. I should be more like them." But here’s the thing — trying to mimic someone else is like putting on clothes that don’t fit. Sure, they might look good on the hanger, but they’re never as comfortable or flattering as something tailored just for you.

The heart of this idea is simple: you’re uniquely you, and no one can do “you” better than you can. Think about it. Each of us has our own quirks, talents, and perspectives that no one else can replicate. When we try to copy someone else, we’re not just imitating them — we’re also sidelining our own uniqueness.

Historically, this idea has popped up time and time again. Ralph Waldo Emerson, for instance, urged people to avoid envy and imitation in his essay "Self-Reliance." He recognized the value in each individual’s unique contribution to the world. More recently, self-help gurus and motivational speakers often repeat this mantra, encouraging us to embrace our individuality rather than chase after someone else’s dream.

Let’s look at a practical example. Picture a high school kid named Alex. Alex loves painting, it’s his passion. He’s good at it too, but then he notices his friend Sam is getting a lot of attention for being a star athlete. Feeling overshadowed, Alex starts spending all his time trying to excel in sports, neglecting his art. Sure, Alex might get better at sports, but he’ll never be as good as Sam — nor as fulfilled as when he was painting. By trying to be someone he’s not, Alex loses the chance to hone his natural talents and find joy in them.

So, how do we apply this wisdom in our own lives? Start by recognizing and celebrating your own strengths and interests. Take time to reflect on what makes you tick, what gets you excited. Once you’ve got that, lean into it. Develop your skills, pursue your passions, and trust that being true to yourself is the best way to make an impact.

Here’s a relatable story. Imagine you’re at a coffee shop with your best friend. You’re talking about your jobs, and your friend mentions how effortlessly their colleague seems to handle everything, juggling tasks with perfect ease. You start thinking, "I should be more like that." But then you catch yourself. You remember that you have your own strengths — maybe you’re great at brainstorming creative solutions or you’re the one in the office who always knows how to lighten the mood. Instead of trying to copy your friend’s colleague, you decide to double down on what you’re good at. Next thing you know, you’re not just better at your job, you’re happier too.

Remember, trying to be someone else is like trying to wear someone else’s shoes. They might be the right size, but they’ll never fit quite right. Embrace your quirks, your talents, your unique perspective. Because, at the end of the day, there’s only one you — and that’s pretty amazing all by itself.