There’s something oddly satisfying about being unapologetically yourself. In a world where mainstream trends often dominate conversations, standing apart and liking things outside the conventional can feel like an act of rebellion. It’s freeing, but let’s be real—it can also scare people away. Whether it’s the music I blast, the games I play, or the way I choose to express myself, I’ve realized that self-love means embracing these quirks unapologetically, even if it means standing alone sometimes.
Here’s how I’m leaning into my individuality, fueled by my love for niche things—and why self-love means staying true to myself.
The Beauty of Liking What You Like
Let’s start with the music. My playlists are filled with artists who push boundaries: Danny Brown, with his frenetic energy and unorthodox flows; Jpegmafia, a walking paradox of chaos and melody; Lupe Fiasco, whose intricate lyrics could double as poetry dissertations; Black Midi, an avant-garde explosion of sound; and Little Simz, a lyrical powerhouse who puts soul into every word.
These artists might not always headline radio charts, but that’s what makes them special. They’re raw, honest, and unique—kind of like how I see myself. Liking these artists isn’t about being “different for the sake of being different.” It’s about finding pieces of myself in their work. Their willingness to defy conventions inspires me to do the same in my own life.
And yet, when I tell someone I’m into Jpegmafia’s glitchy beats or Black Midi’s chaotic soundscapes, I often get blank stares or polite nods. That’s okay. I’ve learned that validation doesn’t come from others’ approval—it comes from how much joy these things bring me.
Games, Nostalgia, and Comfort
Let’s talk about games. Yes, I still play Pokémon, a franchise that has carried me through childhood and adulthood alike. There’s something grounding about the simplicity of catching and training fictional creatures, even as the world gets more complicated. It’s a reminder that it’s okay to enjoy things just because they make you happy.
Beyond Pokémon, I dive into other worlds that spark curiosity and challenge my mind—whether it’s indie titles or retro classics. Gaming, like music, is deeply personal. It’s not about what’s trendy; it’s about what makes me lose track of time in the best way possible.
The Art of “Scaring All the Girls”
There’s an unintended side effect of fully embracing who I am—it can scare people away. Whether it’s my niche interests, the eccentric way I dress, or my refusal to blend in, I’ve heard it all. “You’re too weird.” “Why don’t you like normal stuff?” “Can’t you just fit in?”
But here’s the thing: why would I want to fit in when standing out feels so much better? I’ve realized that the people who matter won’t be scared off by the things that make me, me. They’ll appreciate the passion I bring to the table, whether it’s a deep dive into Danny Brown’s discography or a nerdy rant about Pokémon mechanics.
And for the people who don’t get it? That’s fine. Not everyone is meant to stick around, and I’m learning to be okay with that.
Self-Love: The Ultimate Goal
At the heart of this journey is a commitment to self-love. It’s about understanding that my worth isn’t tied to how many people I impress or how “normal” I appear. It’s in the joy I feel when a Jpegmafia track surprises me with an unexpected beat switch. It’s in the excitement of catching a shiny Pokémon after hours of trying. It’s in the way my heart races when Black Midi’s chaotic energy matches my own restless thoughts.
Self-love is a process, but it starts with accepting who you are, quirks and all. It’s about saying, “This is what I like, this is who I am, and that’s enough.”
Finding My People
The beautiful thing about embracing your true self is that, eventually, you find your people. They’re the ones who get excited when you recommend an obscure album or laugh at your gaming stories. They’re the ones who love you for your authenticity, not despite it.
Until then, I’ll keep scaring the girls (and whoever else gets freaked out) and loving myself through it all. Because being true to myself is the ultimate act of rebellion—and the greatest form of self-love.
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