If we look throughout history, those who made a positive impact on the world were the ones who were drastically different from the majority. They embraced their differences and dared to expose them. MLK, Mother Theresa, Abe Lincoln, Mozart, John Lennon, etc… These are just a few examples of people who recognized their differences as gifts to be shared. If this is the case, why is it that we’re afraid to be different? When you’re different, you’re at risk: for being bullied and outcasted, having an unwanted spotlight on you, being judged and rejected, and often times, at the beginning of your journey of life, this may have been the case. Sometimes, humans will dismiss ideas, beliefs, and other people who are not like their own/them. On the other hand people also follow, take a liking to, and are inspired by those who are different. Often times we reject our own differences in an effort to be similar to those around us. It is in doing this that we lose a part of ourselves and begin to live in fear, inauthenticity, and without connection. We fear that people might see what we’re trying to hide, we walk around secretly feeling like a fraud for not being our true selves and lacking the meaningful, genuine connections we so deeply crave.

We use the word dare (to be different) because we know it’s not easy. It takes bravery and courage to embrace our differences and empower others to do the same. Have you ever been so drawn to a person (whether it’s an entertainer, athlete, writer, friend, teammate, fraternity brother, etc..) because of their demeanor or what they’ve accomplished, but the minute you find out about their struggles and their humanity, you feel an immediate strengthening of your connection and a drastically stronger gravitational pull to them? This is because we are drawn to vulnerability and authenticity; false strength and deception are not as attractive. Being daring means being bold enough to stay true to who we really are.