How to be Weird: A Step by Step Explanation

By Chie Theresa Fujioka

Being weird requires much hard work and patience unless one has been a natural tendency for it. If one has been raised for many years in a strict community of family of social elite, the transition from “normal” to weird is often difficult. First, however, the ideas of weird and normal must be defined. To be weird is to do things unique and unusual in comparison with the accepted behavior of one’s peers. It is not the same as being insane, or immoral. These are commonly misused to describe being weird, but actually describe a state of doing something that affects others in a non-positive manner. It can be offensive, rude, etc. Normal is a word used to describe a lack of unique characteristics or beliefs that make one blend in with peer surroundings. Since there should not be a standard about societal behavior, normal is a pseudo-characteristic. It describes people from a frame of reference that cannot be easily determined. That is why any mention of this abstract concept will be found in quotes throughout this essay.

In the process of adopting weirdness, one must first follow a few basic instructions. Of course there are the commonly known ideas of being different etc. but weirdness requires distinct differences, pride in oddities, and knowledge of the social boundaries of weird, “normal”, and insane. It is, in a sense, a study, of what appeals to others as funny and strange, and the difference from strange, scary, and repulsive. To effectively be weird, one must put themselves to learning and understanding these concepts. This is the first step of being weird, even for “naturals.” However, in the case of “naturals,” these processes are done unconsciously and without much thought. First step it is, although not necessarily separate from the others which should naturally follow.

After this first step is taken, or in the process of this step, the convert must begin creating a personal creed (written or unwritten) about their stand in weirdness. Some prefer only to be weird in certain circumstances, while others are weird all around. All creeds are self-defined, but any good creed would have a few basic points. First, the personal definition and application of the behavior differences should be stated. This should include the idea that peer opinion will not sway belief without personal conviction. Also, the creed should include the concept of refraining from using behavioral oddities as excuse or cause of malice of any sort. Not doing this would cause the person to stray into the insane, immoral, or extreme forms of strange behavior, thus showing contempt for the differences stated above. This would in most cases call for expunction from the local community of behaviorally different people, as it is a great offense, along with degrading to the image of this commendable trait. A point to remember is that one should not make the creed too restricting because then one of the purposes of the conversion is defeated. An ideal creed would go as follows:

I, ___________, do declare that I will no longer strictly follow societal, unspoken, and implied rules without personal conviction of my own. In doing this, I declare myself to be part of the group known as the behaviorally different. I say this without feelings of shame or doubt, being proud of my freedom from society and the term “weird.” I refuse to behave in a manner dishonorable to others of this status by acting insane, immoral, or malicious. I promise to kindly correct any others (under the same title) who are displaying these undesirable traits privately and objectively. I also understand that if anybody comes to me in this manner, I will listen and apply their advice, unless it is pertains to a personal belief/decision. (With this follows a few personal statements, if necessary)

The above is the basic necessities to be included as weird, and no additions are necessary unless the person wishes to put more, in accordance with personal conviction.

Although there are limitations to the extent of freedom in behavior, there is much one can do with these new ideas. The possibilities are almost endless, ranging from light silliness to serious philosophizing about the unknown. The advantage is that one does not have to worry about the opinion of others and may enjoy life. This type of freedom has great and fun rewards. Being weird is quite helpful, especially in weird situations, where the “normal” person would be uncomfortable and unfit for handling the situation. A practiced weird person would have the ability to respond in a manned fitting.

The distancing from other’s opinions can be a difficult break. It must be remembered that the rewards are great, and keep the goals in mind. Obviously persecution will result from “normal” people. Remember that most likely, they desire the results of these actions, but will not face their subconscious desires to free themselves from societies tight bounds. Be a Missionary, so to speak, shining among the ignorant “normal” plebs and flocks, drawing socially starved to your light, and cheering them with your joy. Keep and bold face, and keep honest with yourself. Happy weirding.

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