The Fine Line Between Inspiration and Imitation
We all get inspired by other friends, mentors, social media creators, or even motivational speakers. Seeing someone succeed often lights a spark in us. It pushes us to do better, dream bigger. But sometimes, in the process of getting inspired, we unknowingly start copying. We forget to ask: Is this really for me? Or am I just following what worked for someone else?
That’s the fine line between inspiration and imitation and it’s easy to cross without even knowing.
I’m the kind of student who has many thoughts in mind, but not always the words to say them out loud. I observe more, speak less. And maybe that’s why I often get influenced easily. When I see others doing well, I start thinking, “Maybe I should do it like them.”
I’ve always wanted to learn from others their handwriting, confidence, career choices. But slowly, I started copying them without even realising it. From changing my handwriting style to match someone I admired, to picking my PGDM specialization just because someone else succeeded in it I never really followed my own inner voice.
Even when I use tools like ChatGPT, it gives me great ideas. But sometimes, I forget to ask myself, “What do I want to say?” I start depending on outside answers more than my own.
Deep down, I know I can make my own decisions. I have that ability. But when I don’t use it, it hurts. It feels like I’m leaving a part of myself behind the part that’s honest, original, and true.
Now I’m trying to change. I still admire people, still look for guidance. But I’m learning to draw a line to take inspiration without losing myself. Because following others might help you move… but only your own instincts can tell you where to