When Advising Someone to 'Just Be Yourself'
The phrase 'just be yourself' is a common piece of advice often offered to individuals. However, this advice can sometimes be misplaced, particularly in contexts of mental health, safety, personal development, and cultural sensitivity. Understanding when and when not to give this advice can significantly impact one's wellbeing and the people around them.
Mental Health Struggles
When applicable: If someone is dealing with mental health issues, encouragement to be clearly themselves can be tremendously helpful. Being authentic with feelings can aid self-expression and foster a sense of belonging. It is essential to provide a supportive environment where individuals can express themselves without fear of stigma or judgment.
When not applicable: Telling someone to just be themselves without addressing their mental health issues can be detrimental. It might discourage them from seeking professional help, leading to neglect and worsening of conditions. It's crucial to acknowledge and address mental health struggles while offering support and guidance towards appropriate resources.
Unsafe Environments
When applicable: In situations where being oneself could lead to harm or discrimination, such as in hostile workplaces or abusive relationships, advising someone to hide their true self can be more prudent for their safety. This does not mean they should suppress their identity entirely but seek ways to adapt in a more secure environment.
When not applicable: In situations where all else is safe and supportive, encouraging authenticity can be beneficial. In some cases, openly expressing oneself can lead to positive changes and a supportive environment. Always assess the current context to provide the most beneficial advice.
Developmental Stage
For younger individuals undergoing significant personal development, it is important to guide them on how to adapt while still being authentic. This involves balancing the need to introduce oneself to new roles and responsibilities while maintaining one's core identity.
Educational settings: In academic or professional environments, students and employees are often expected to meet certain social expectations and standards. Advising them to simply be themselves without considering these expectations can lead to frustration and underperformance.
Personal growth: Helping these individuals navigate these expectations can foster a more balanced approach to self-expression. Encourage them to find their voice within the framework of these expectations, aiming for a harmonious integration of authenticity and professionalism.
Social Expectations and Cultural Sensitivity
In multicultural environments, what feels authentic to one person may be inappropriate or misunderstood by others. Advising someone to simply be themselves can sometimes lead to conflicts or misunderstandings. It's important to educate individuals on cultural sensitivity and the importance of adapting while still maintaining a sense of personal identity.
Education on cultural diversity: Providing information on different cultural norms, values, and practices can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. This can be done through workshops, training sessions, or mentorship programs.
Empathy and respect: Encourage individuals to practice empathy and respect towards others, even if their actions or behaviors appear different from what they are accustomed to. This can help build a more inclusive and understanding environment.
Ultimately, the advice to 'just be yourself' can be both helpful and harmful, depending on the context. It is essential to consider the individual's mental health, safety, developmental stage, and cultural environment before offering this advice. By doing so, we can help create a more positive and supportive world for everyone.