Choose a Non-Linear Life

by PJ Valenciano

I have more time to write these days! Among the many ways I express myself, is through words. 

I am of many sorts, and those who have known me 10 or even 5 years ago are shocked by my current endeavors.

Because once, they knew me as the IT Marketing Professional, the Publicist, the Writer, the Theater Artist, the Jewelry Designer, the Entrepreneur, the Social Development Advocate, the Surfer, the Pre-School Teacher— the list goes on.

To be honest, I have always needed to be more confident about how nonlinear my work choices were. I was criticized for it.

Once a friend told me that I can’t be a “Jack of all Trades.” I have to think of my future— my career, my security.

I get that. But, I always ask what kind of future is that? Should I stay in one job even when there’s no joy? Do I keep sucking up to bosses who are power-tripping their subordinates? Do I stay even when my values no longer align with the organization’s goals?

I think this mindset is wrapped in the idea that life can be “constant–,” that we can secure the future– and that we are defined by our careers– by the “success” defined by the outside world.

We forget that we are all fluid beings. We forget the child that once only wished to explore the mysteries of the self and the world in which we were born.

Embrace Non-Conformity

During one of our in-depth conversations, my partner, Gerard, told me that there are two types of people– the conformist & non-conformist. Non-conformist is not a choice– this bunch is born to be one.

Being a non-conformist is a hard path— when the majority conforms to what has been set by the many. But, to be one is most fulfilling!

So, if this is you, embrace it! Otherwise, you will feel only regret for not honoring your true self.

Dare to dance to the beat of your drum like a true nonconformist rebel! Just like the legendary Ralph Waldo Emerson, who high-fived nonconformity, believing that real trailblazers spice up life's recipe by adding a pinch of unpredictability.

In a world where fitting in is the name of the game, being a nonconformist is like wearing a neon hat in a sea of black and white. It takes guts to be your funky self and throw on that cape of uniqueness.

Nonconformists are the rebels with a cause, dodging the mainstream and embracing their inner maverick. They are the beacons of authenticity, making the world a more colorful place, one daring step at a time.

So, I invite you to take a moment to reflect on your values and priorities. Embrace them wholeheartedly and let them guide you to be-- YOU! 

By doing so, you'll embark on a journey towards living a more fulfilling and meaningful life – one that’s aligned with who you truly are at the deepest level of your being.

Let me close with this quote from Sir Ken Robinson:

“Life is not linear, it is organic. We create our lives symbiotically as we explore our talents in relation to the circumstances they help create for us.”