Our community tells us to embrace and express our identity as African-Americans and as individuals in the way we walk, talk and present ourselves. However, tattoos, body piercing, dreadlocks, full beards, gold teeth, blonde hair, skimpy clothes and other unique ways that some individuals choose to express themselves are not always considered acceptable or appropriate by those in authority.
So then our individuality takes a back seat to fitting in, getting along, doing the right thing, as defined by others. In exchange, we are then allowed to progress, whether that’s in the workplace, at school, in clubs and organizations, and in other sectors of life.
But should advancement and success be predicated on giving up all traces of uniqueness and plunging headlong into so-called conformity?
Not necessarily.
If you are clear on the image that you are trying to portray, why not decorate yourself with tattoos, or feel comfortable wearing large pieces of jewelry, or put on an African outfit. On the other hand, we shouldn’t take offense when one of our own, especially one of our elders, sets us straight about how we will be perceived in the professional world if our grooming choices are not within the bounds of what’s considered “mainstream.”
We may or may not choose to take their advice, but we should realize that the messenger and his or her message are born from a place of wisdom tested by experience.
Be true to your own self-image. Your identity is what you make it, and a quick walk around Winston-Salem State University reveals the diversity of tastes on campus.
Success in the “real world” is not about losing your identity. Rather, it is about growing into your own true self and becoming more versatile, realizing that a solid self-image, however that is expressed, involves the age-old qualities of a sound mind, strength, discipline and discernment.