I’ve been thinking a lot about identity this year.  Maybe it’s because I turned 40.  Maybe it’s because I always feel like I’m searching.  Maybe it’s low self confidence or anxiety.  Maybe it is just that season of my life.  I can’t really put my finger on it, but it’s been on my mind a lot.

Recently, the word basic is being used to describe people.  While it may offend some, it doesn’t offend me in the slightest.  I actually think it describes me kinda perfectly.  When I Googled the definition, this is what popped up.

As slang, basic refers to someone who is unwilling or afraid to express individuality. If you are basic, then you are ultra-conformist, not unique, and status-seeking through group association. You are not offensive and may be a little boring.

Ya’ll.  If that doesn’t describe me, I don’t know what does.

The thing is, for as long as I can remember, all I’ve ever wanted is to belong and be accepted.  I think it’s safe to say that the majority of people feel this way (whether they care to admit it or not).  It is evident in social media, pop culture, and everyday life.  But, in that very same breath, we want to be unique, different, special.  We want to be uncommon.

So the question is, how can I fit in and be unique enough to put my mark on the world?

I have realized that I am not a person to make a lot of noise about issues.  I don’t spend energy arguing about politics, gun control, or Planned Parenthood.  I am the first to admit that I don’t have the knowledge about these issues to get into a debate.

I also accept the fact that will never have a million followers on Instagram, be a published writer, or invent an iPhone app that will change lives.

That’s not the influence I’m meant to have on this world.  I want to leave an impression, a positive impression, on the people I am close with.  The people I do life with.  That I know I can do.

I can make my husband laugh just by giving him a certain look.  I can cook a dinner that brings our family together.  I can be at every sporting event the kids are participating in.  I can keep my cats safe and healthy.  I can make amazing memories with my parents that will last a lifetime.  I can be a constant and steady friend.  I can help a cancer patient smile on one of the worst days of their life.

All those things.  I can do all those things and more.  That’s my mark on the world.

So, ya.  I may be basic.  I may drink Starbucks, stay away from conflict, take selfies, wear jeans and hoodies, follow the trends, seek acceptance, and live what some may call a boring life.  But it’s my life.  I love it.  This is who I am and I accept that.  It may have taken 40 years to figure this out, but that’s the journey… sometimes it takes a little time.

I have a lot more to say about this, but it can wait for another day.

______________________________________________________________________________________________

life.food.adventure & a cup of coffee… A blog about life, love, creativity, home, food, wine, step-parenting, weight loss, Jeeps, fitness, running, traveling, entertaining, fashion, being gluten-free, and… cats. Join me in embracing the chaos.