Why do we put ourselves in boxes just because society tells us to?!?

Question

I'll be a freshman in high school this year and I'm very frustrated. Everyone seems to think that EVERYONE needs a label. I have no label. I'm not punk, goth, emo, preppy, skater,....blah blah blah. I'm just me. Isn't that ok?! Why do we all need a label? I find it immature and idiotic to try to categorize everyone. I'm a mix of many things that make me unique....just like everyone else. (lol) My question really is this: Does this ever end? Or was Bowling For Soup right? Is high school like the real world? Forgive my question that probably seems immature to you....but I'm only 14 as it is. Thanks.... ~Indie G

Answer 1

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I am 50 years old and have been in the post-high school world for a long time. All of your life people will judge, label, and categorize you. It doesn't happen the same way it does in high school, but indeed it happens, and if you are not careful it can limit your lifetime choices.

I agree with you that you are unique. We really shouldn't label and categorize, but people being what they are...

Answer 2

High school never ends. But the people like you are usually happier when they are 30, than the ones who are trying to fulfill the demands of their self-prescribed labels. It's the only game  they know, and by it's very nature,  it is impossible to ever win.

Most exemplary people through history did not limit themselves to the confines of a labelled box. The Box is a self-imposed handicap, being sold as a "cool club" during schoolyears.