This quote, “The really important thing to be was yourself, just as hard as you could,” emphasizes the significance of authenticity and individuality. It suggests that the most crucial thing in life is to be true to oneself, to embrace one’s uniqueness and individuality, and to live life authentically without succumbing to societal pressures or expectations.

The phrase “just as hard as you could” implies that being yourself is not always an easy path. It requires courage, determination, and resilience. It is about standing up for your beliefs, values, and principles, even when they are challenged or opposed. It is about not compromising your true self for the sake of fitting in or pleasing others.

Applying this idea in today’s world, we often find ourselves in situations where we are pressured to conform to societal norms and expectations, or to fit into certain stereotypes. This can lead to a loss of individuality and authenticity, as we start molding ourselves to meet these external expectations. However, as the quote suggests, we should strive to be ourselves, to maintain our uniqueness and individuality, and to live our lives authentically.

In terms of personal development, this quote can serve as a guiding principle. It encourages us to develop a strong sense of self, to understand who we are, what we value, and what we believe in. It urges us to stay true to these aspects of our identity, to not compromise them for the sake of fitting in or pleasing others. This can lead to a more fulfilling and satisfying life, as we are living in alignment with our true selves.

Furthermore, being ourselves “just as hard as we could” can also mean continuously striving to improve and grow as individuals, to become the best version of ourselves. It’s about recognizing our strengths and weaknesses, our passions and interests, and working on them to enhance our skills and abilities. It’s about not settling for mediocrity, but always striving for excellence, in a way that aligns with our true selves.