Being rebellious

Post Reply New Topic

I have always struggled with being rebellious. I have done things that people told me were bad ideas or even against the rules because I thought those people were wrong. Basically, I've made decisions based on my own ridiculous ideas.

Also, unlike my siblings, I've been a "do whatever you want as long as you don't get caught" child. I just realized how rebellious I've been, and I want to actually start believing people when they tell me that something is a good/bad idea--if they're smart people. Any suggestions?

I tend to be the opposite - I follow instructions, but disregard advice (and often do the exact opposite.)

I guess if you want to start being less rebellious, you just have to slow down a little until following what people say becomes more natural.

Speaking as a long-time rebel, I'm not sure I would counsel you to dispense completely with your rebellious side. Being a rebel is bad when it comes to criminal or immoral acts, and I would certainly discourage anybody from these. The good side of being a rebel is that it means one has a mind of one's own, which is a good thing. If nobody can show me the error of my ways, and if I'm not morally or criminally remiss, I stand my ground, and am proud of myself when I do so.

You need reason not blanket statements.
Don't do this sounds like a challenge.
Don't do this because the result will be xyz, and this will have longer term consequences makes more sense.

The mixed message of do whatever as long as you don't get caught is ambiguous, and only leads to trouble.

You need to focus on the consequences, not just of getting caught, but also what this may do to your attitude, reputation, or whatever other consequence this may have for you personally.

We all eventually have to work out our own moral and ethical code, and it sounds like that's where you're at, so don't stop asking, always follow your conscience and gut, and if anyone asks you to go against it, always ask why, and if their answer isn't good enough don't do it.