These days, I select clothing that I enjoy and that suits the occasion without fretting over whether they represent my “personal style.” Similarly, my goal for our home is to create an environment that is cozy, appealing, and practical, rather than fixating on whether it reflects my unique aesthetic. I found that pondering my personal tastes didn’t engage me as much as I’d thought.
I came to the realization that I express myself daily through writing, which genuinely captivates me—this is more than enough. I no longer feel compelled to stress about the appearance of my shoes or curtains if it doesn’t interest me.
I recognize that many people derive joy from making thoughtful choices regarding their preferences—they take pleasure in curating their favorite items. However, it’s a truth of adulthood: just because something is enjoyable for one person doesn’t mean it’ll be the same for me, and that’s perfectly fine. I prefer not to overthink decisions about things that don’t truly matter to me. Life is fleeting, and I want to spend my energy wisely. Interestingly, social psychologist Roy Baumeister points out that striving for authenticity can come at a cost; in a world overflowing with choices, the mental effort required to make deliberate selections can drain energy that could be better used elsewhere.
Ironically, just as I released the notion of needing to express a personal style, I began reflecting deeply on my personal motto: Be Jenna. Although these concepts may sound similar, they are distinct. In fact, after dedicating time to truly “Be Jenna,” I’ve developed a clearer understanding of my tastes. While I’m still not inclined to put in the effort to showcase my preferences, I have a better grasp of what I appreciate. For example, I’ve recently become fascinated by the remarkable Laurelton Hall, a creation of Louis Comfort Tiffany, which I absolutely adore.
For more insights from Jenna Sullivan, check out her other writings.
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In summary, I’ve chosen to let go of the anxiety surrounding personal style. Instead, I focus on what truly matters to me and express myself through writing, which fulfills me.