Categorizing

BY JULIE CHEN

Why do we have such a strong desire to categorize ourselves?

The dreaded series of ‘what’s are you’ questions could presumably be the most universal icebreaker questions man has ever known - and no doubt the most irksome.

The fact is, humans are impulsive creatures with transient emotions. 

As individuals we are changing with every tick of the clock. Each second could potentially mark an expanding horizon or a moment of revelation. Even on a biological level, our cells are being created and destroyed at such magnificent paces that in a few minutes, we could quite literally have become a different person that needs to be categorized differently. 

Nevertheless, we retain a strong desire to categorize ourselves and people around us. Perhaps it stems from our innate desire to associate certain entities with familiar objects. Or perhaps, it's simply an interesting pastime for our brains. 

Whatever the case, society seems to be constantly pressuring us into thinking we must develop symbols for ourselves. Just like McDonalds is associated with the Golden Arches and Nike goes hand in hand with checkmarks, we too, feel the need to develop a personal branding and subsequently become known as the “cat-person” or the “raw vegan" or the “video game junkie”.

Why is this? I have a theory that it might originate from everybody's longing for a sense of belonging, no matter if its with a clan of people who share your interests, or a certain societal movement. We try to find a favorite band or a favorite style so we can be associated with particular characteristics or ambiences. We avoid liking certain things to avoid negative stereotypes and sometimes even fake our affection for other things simply to create positive impressions, when in reality we shouldn’t be allowing our little penchants to define us.

The thing is, in a way, categorizing ourselves potentially undermines amazing opportunities for us to make a change. We choose our favorite pizza topping to eat or our favorite sport to play or our favorite person to spend our time with because we've already put it out there that our best friend is whom and our favorite topping is pepperoni. And who am I to blame you? People announce their diets or relationship statuses all the time so they can stay more committed.

But what I'm saying is, don’t feel the need to constantly be searching for a category to place yourself in, in hopes of adding substance to your persona. Do not allow others to judge you based on your preferences. Nothing could possibly define you more than you as a person. Radiate positive vibes — smile, take chances, talk, and go outside and try new things. It’s perfectly fine to have experimented with so many things that you could not possibly be categorized. In fact, take that away and set it as your next goal. 

Do not be averse to change, whether it be a shift in your perspectives, your preferences, or your attitudes; I swear, change is eye-opening. And exciting, too.