PEER pressure has always been a powerful and influential force that often affects a person’s choice or action, whether it be for something good or bad. Almost all of us have experienced peer pressure at least once in our lives. I can safely say that, more often than not, it is not a circumstance that a lot of us enjoy going through.

     Nowadays, we are often brainwashed or intimidated into thinking that speaking up can lead to terrible consequences—as if using your voice is a sin. We are made to think that it is much better to stay silent, keep our opinions to ourselves, and simply nod along to whatever it is being told to us.

     But this should not be the case. Even if you are unsure of your opinion, If it does not cause harm to anyone else, why should we cower in a corner and keep our voices muted?

     A lot of times, fear of rejection is what prevents us from resisting peer pressure. The thought of being left out or excluded from something can be pretty intimidating, especially around our teenage years and early adulthood when “fitting in” seems to be the most important thing in our lives. The need to be accepted can push us to go along with what everyone else is doing even if it means going against our own beliefs and doing things we’re not necessarily comfortable with.

     And that is why a lot of us today settle under the safe umbrella of being a follower. The thought of stepping up to lead and being different from everyone else around you is such a jarring thing to even think about doing that oftentimes, we end up not doing it at all. Peer pressure, leadership, and the concept of leading by example are more interconnected than we initially realize. Overcoming peer pressure is an important first step in not only fighting off the urge to just conform but also embracing the courage to lead and inspire others with our actions. 

     Once you overcome the unnerving feeling of peer pressure, you’ll learn that stepping up to be a leader isn’t as intimidating as you once thought. 

     To be a leader is to be unafraid of standing up for your values, make independent decisions, and courageously guide others. A true leader is never swayed or affected by the opinions of others no matter how harsh they might be. Instead, they are strengthened by their principles and the need to make a positive change. This transition from being influenced by peer pressure to embracing leadership is a pivotal moment in personal growth.

     In personal settings or workplace environments, we must remember that being vocal about our opinions and stepping into the role of being a leader isn’t a bad thing. For as long as you remember to be mindful of your actions and be the kind of leader you aspire to be, then you should have no trouble. 

     As we near the midterm elections, it is crucial to keep these things in mind when choosing and electing the next batch of leaders to govern our country. Fostering a community where we are not afraid to use our voices and demonstrating that we no longer conform to a particular box just because everyone else does—or because we fear standing up and standing out—is essential.

     Ultimately, the ability to overcome peer pressure and lead by example is a testament to the strength of character and the potential for positive change within every single one of us.