Insights On Conformity + Not Being Yourself #2

Fellow Non-Conformist (or aspiring Non-Conformist) 👋🏾

Here are this week’s resources, with which I hope to encourage you to continue resisting mindless conformity, or to motivate you to stop conforming mindlessly:

(Click on the book title to buy or read a sample of the book.)

The Presentation of Self in Everyday Life by Erving Goffman

The Presentation of Self In Everyday Life explores the concept of social interactions as theatrical performances. Goffman argues that individuals engage in impression management, carefully crafting their behaviour, appearance, and words to create desired impressions on others.

People divide their lives into “front stage” (where they present themselves to others) and “back stage” (where they can relax and be themselves) areas, strategically managing their performances to maintain social order and gain social acceptance.

Goffman’s work sheds light on the pressures individuals face to conform, the strategies they employ to maintain a desired image, and the impact of conformity on their self-expression and authenticity.

A longer summary of the book, 5 quotes, 5 key takeaways, and 5 actionable tips, which I expanded on, are in the latest issue of The Individual™