Challenging the Boxes We Put People In

Today, it seems almost everyone is being categorized and labeled based on personal choices. The latest example is a person who practices the Paleo Diet but uses vegan products, including vegan desserts and hair care. While such choices reflect an individual's personal belief in what is best for them, does every small detail need to be scrutinized and categorized into boxes labeled as Paleo, vegan, omnivore etc.?

Let’s explore why labels like these exist, why they are unnecessary, and more importantly, why they can be restrictive for the individuals involved.

Labeling: A Necessary Evil?

Labels can serve a purpose. They help us quickly categorize and understand people and trends. For example, a person can be called an omnivore if they eat meat, a vegan if they only consume plant-based products, or an omnivore vegan if they adhere to a strict plant-based diet but occasionally consume certain animal products.

However, labels can also become restrictive and seen as status symbols. Once labeled, individuals may feel compelled to fit into a category, even if it conflicts with their personal health goals or lifestyle preferences.

My Personal Perspective

For instance, if a person follows the Paleo Diet and uses vegan products, they are simply making choices that align with what they believe is the most beneficial for their health and lifestyle. The idea that they must be labeled as either one or the other is a narrow-minded view. Naming is not everything, and it should not define an individual’s identity to such an extent.

Let's consider another example. If someone prefers vanilla cream soda and wears Skechers shoes, they simply have a unique taste in beverages and footwear. Such preferences do not make them categorizable as belonging to a specific group or needing a label.

Why Not Label Everything?

Instead of fitting individuals into specific categories, it’s much more constructive to respect their autonomy and choices. Each person is unique, with their own set of preferences, dietary needs, and personal philosophies.

If someone uses vegan products but eats meat, it doesn’t make them a vegan. Similarly, if someone washes their hair with dog shampoo, it does not make them a Labrador. These are individual choices that reflect personal values, opinions, and lifestyles. Labeling every detail can be seen as an unnecessary restriction and can even be seen as a form of discrimination.

Respecting Individual Choices

The mantra here is to respect and celebrate the diverse choices people make. Whether it’s about diet, products, or lifestyle, the emphasis should be on what an individual wants rather than what labels dictate.

People should be called by their name or simply referred to by their actions without the compulsion to fit into predefined categories. This approach not only respects the individual’s freedom but also fosters a more inclusive environment where everyone can express themselves without fear of being boxed in.

Finally, as we navigate the complex world of lifestyle choices and diets, it’s important to remember that labels should be used sparingly and with respect. Let individuals be who they are, and let them make their choices without the pressure of fitting into rigidly defined categories.