In our article we will talk about self-expression. This is a very interesting topic, touching on a number of issues. In fact, why is it important for people to be able to express themselves? Why is this done, for whom, in what forms, why are many individuals embarrassed to demonstrate their individuality to the world and experience quite noticeable suffering from this? In the end, what exactly should we understand by the term "self-expression"? Let's try to deal with emerging issues.
Self-expression is what?
I would like to define one phrase, but apparently this will not work, because even laconic and usually laconic dictionaries, when faced with this concept, become eloquent.
We can say that a person’s self-expression is his attempt to express his inner world in some external manifestations. When through actions, words, deeds, etc., the external actualization of the invisible internal content (of their own individual beliefs, feelings, attitudes, etc.) takes place. And often this can be in the nature of a challenge or protest (most often it happens in adolescents). Self-expression of an individual is an act of freedom, its important quality is not rational awareness, but spontaneity.
Why is there a need for self-expression?
We live in a very difficult world. Life imposes a lot of restrictions on a person: moral, religious, social, etc. If this were not the case, humanity would most likely cease to exist long ago. But people cannot turn into an inert gray mass, preoccupied only with the problems of their own survival. Fortunately, we are endowed with an individuality that makes everyone unique, one of a kind. Is it any wonder that many want to show others their non-standard.
There is a point of view that self-expression is one of the most accessible and powerful ways to feel happy and free, to declare your existence to the world, to somehow stand out from a huge crowd of your own kind, to reveal the inherent creative potential. Self-expression can give a break from fatigue and negative emotions, increase self-esteem, strengthen faith in one’s own strength, temper one’s temper and develop independence from other people's opinions.
Different ways and forms of self-expression
Probably, it would be impossible to list all the methods and techniques by which people can show their own originality. We will try to highlight the most common, typical forms of self-expression that exist in our time:
1. Self-expression in creativity. There are many types of creativity where you can show your inner self:
- fine art (painting, modeling, drawing, mosaic, etc.);
- musical form of self-expression (vocals, ballet, modern dances, composing music or its performance);
- literary activity (prose and poetry, keeping personal diaries and blogs on the Internet);
- other directions (pantomime, theater, etc.)
2. Self-expression in any activity:
- in sports achievements;
- study;
- professional activity;
- implementation of any own projects (business ideas).
3. An external means of self-expression (the form most characteristic of young people and adolescents):
- eccentric clothes;
- tattoos;
- dyeing hair in unusual colors, creative hairstyles;
- piercing
- scarring;
- unusual, causing makeup;
- change in appearance with the help of plastic surgery.
Self-expression in adolescence
Entering adolescence, many children become uncontrollable rebels. Parents simply stop recognizing their children. Often teenagers begin to wear completely ridiculous outfits, impose an incredible amount of makeup on themselves, and behave too impudently and aggressively.
Another characteristic form of self-expression in adolescents is belonging to any subculture (punks, goths, emo, roleeviks, tolkinists, etc.). Young people, having entered the thematic community, with all their soul and body indulge in the philosophy of this movement and try on all its external attributes. To those around, these methods of self-expression seem ridiculous, absurd, absurd, but adolescents themselves feel quite comfortable in their roles.
As a rule, these hobbies by themselves pass through a couple of years, as a young man grows up, but sometimes the desire for originality can take an undesirable turn.
Dangerous self-expression
At the very beginning of the article, we wrote that self-expression is something that should bring joy, emotional fullness. Unfortunately, this does not always happen. A person can choose for himself a form of self-expression that is dangerous both for his life and for the life of others.
For example, it can be a demonstrative hobby for extreme sports. Young people, not realizing the value of life, can perform dangerous tricks, while shooting each other on a mobile phone camera and uploading photos and videos to the Internet, wishing to gain popularity in the virtual community.
Drugs and alcohol are also a form of self-expression for some. Perhaps this choice, aimed at self-destruction, may indicate excessive vulnerability or weakness of a person, inability or unwillingness to engage in any creative activity.
Expression Issues
The world is full of people who carefully avoid self-expression. Their personality is erased and vague. With a boss, such a person is polite and competent, with colleagues at work - nice and friendly, in the company - invisible and quiet. She dresses neatly and discreetly, speaks correctly. In principle, not a man, but an angel ... But is he really like that inside? Most probably not. The inner world of such a person can be hesitant and filled with various feelings and desires.
But he carefully hides them from others. In his heart, he may feel like a great philosopher or musician, but various fears prevent him from showing this: to hear a negative assessment, not to live up to expectations, the fear of being misunderstood. This indicates a lack of inner freedom, emotional tightness and the presence of complexes. Most likely, this condition originates in childhood, when parents criticized the baby too much, did not notice his small victories, and did not praise for his achievements. The man grew up and became "buttoned all the way." As a result, his life is deprived of many colors and emotions, which gives people the opportunity to express themselves.
Final word
Our self-expression should benefit both us and those who are close to us, the only way we can be truly happy and bring joy to the world around us. External manifestations of personality always testify to what our soul is filled with. May your inner world be beautiful!