No, we’re not recommending that you imbibe frog venom and undergo a life-changing hallucination (that’s a thing, by the way – it’s called Kambo). But we do have some tips on how to care less about what other people think, and act more like your weird, awesome self – starting today!
Say no when you’re just not feeling it
Don’t be afraid to be the one who says no the the fifth espresso martini of the night. They’re not that good anyway, and frankly that amount of caffeine so late at night will play havoc with your sleep pattern! If you don’t want to go and see an exhibition by your friend’s friend’s uncle’ super-cool girlfriend, don’t go. If people judge you for listening to your own intuition, they clearly aren’t fabulous enough to be your friend anyway.
Say YES when you are feeling it
Get unashamedly, embarrassingly excited about the things you love. A lot of us are scared to be passionate in someone poops on our parade, but by avoiding disapproval you’re missing out on some wonderful feelings of anticipation and excitement. The next time someone invites you to the opening of a yoga studio you’ve been waiting to sign up to for ages, cry “YES!” to the heavens (Hint hint: MoreYoga Brixton is opening this weekend!!)
Make sound effects
I know you do it. When you’re home alone, you put on weird voices, talk to yourself and even blow the occasional raspberry for no reason. How do I know? Because we all do it! It’s amazing how hilarious people find sound effects when you crack them out in group conversation. Two main benefits: immediately become the ‘funny one’ in your friend group and no longer have to fear letting a weird voice slip out by accident.
Use all of your body to speak
Tons of research has been done into how physiology affects your emotions, and it turns out that you can change how you’re feeling just by moving your body in different ways. Think about it – when you’re sad, you’re hunched up. When you’re happy, your whole body opens up. So give it a go when you talk to people – gesture with your hands, wave your arms (and your feet if you’re brave)! The science behind this is one of the reasons that exercise classes like yoga and crossfit make you feel so good afterwards. Making your body more expansive and expressive brings out the real you!
Let your weird hang out and remember your vibe attracts your tribe – and no one wants to chill with people who all act the same!