Normal. What does it mean to be “normal”? What does a “normal” life look like? Is it defined by having a childhood spent at school and extracurricular activities, followed by going to college right after high school, and eventually landing a 9 to 5 office job? Does it mean dressing similarly to those around you, or listening to the latest music trends?
These all sound “normal”, simply because that’s what most of us see and believe to be the basic, “right” path to take in life. What’s normal to you is defined by your surroundings, what you observe, and what you frequently experience. For instance, the lifestyle that many of us consider to be conventional, would not be seen as the “normal” life to a gifted child musician. Instead, what’s “normal” to that child may be a life consisting of day-long music lessons, concerts, and tours, as opposed to sitting in a classroom and after-school activities. What’s considered normal is determined by your perspective.
The things we do that we believe to be normal or not, also depends on how we believe outsiders see us, given the identities we have labeled ourselves with. A personal example, being the only non-music major in my school’s symphony orchestra, many people found that unusual. My peers often questioned my choice to dedicate so much energy to being part of the orchestra, yet not choosing to be a music major. To them, my choices weren’t considered conventional. But to me, after spending my whole life learning music and playing in youth orchestras, it had become a part of who I was.
Is your life normal? That’s up to you–it depends on how and what you want to compare your lifestyle to–or maybe you reject the idea of comparison altogether! Things you are used to, things you consider part of your life as you know it, may seem normal to you–although others may view it differently. However you choose to define your life, don’t confine yourself to a box because of others expectations. If the thought of something unconventional intimidates you: try the activity, even if you’re certain you’ll fail. Talk to the person you once considered strange. Visit, or heck, move to the country you’ve always been curious about. And know that in life, no matter how “normal” it may be, being brave enough to break out of routine might just lead you to a new identity, or rather, a new “normal.”
And if you’ve ever worried about a child musician not having a regular childhood, rest assured, they’re most likely doing just fine living their version of normal. Just as you’re living yours.
Author Bio: Hi, I’m Rachel! I’m a rising university senior, with plans to pursue a Master’s Degree in Health Coaching. I am passionate about various aspects of alternative healing, specifically Reiki, acupressure, and traditional eastern medicine. I am also a tarot reader, and I love being able to help others find clarity and guidance throughout life.