individuation

Do you crave being different? Do you try to find something that sets you apart from others? Do you find yourself pushing against the norm for no clear reason?

This could be an indication that you value individuation. If you were raised in a conservative religion, that might play a part in it.

Within conservative religions, there is a lot of enmeshment. This enmeshment brings conformity—everyone seems to act the same, think the same, be the same. But maybe you’re tired of being the same.

If you find yourself pushing away from the norm, you may be seeking or needing a sense of individuation. Individuation is defined as “the development of the individual from the universal.” Individuation is an important factor in cultivating our identity, & it can also be a unique value that we hold.

Whether we are in religion or out of it, we can choose to align our lives with that value of individuation. As we create boundaries, learn more about ourselves & listen to our needs, we can foster our sense of individuation.

*You can read more of these posts on my instagram page, @religious.trauma.with.emilee