#HoodHabits

​This blog series will focus on the ‘Round and Round We Go’ chapter of Life in its Rawest Form. 
 
It’s no secret that poverty, drugs, single-parent households, and lack of education plague our society in the inner cities and urban communities. Unfortunately, a lot of those brought up in these communities adapt to their surroundings by seeing and doing--basically imitating--what is going on around them. It becomes second nature as they grow into adulthood, only to pass down what they’ve seen to the next generation. For a lot of them, it’s all they know. Very few chose a different, better path.
 
When you live an environment where everyone around you are living the same way, it can be easy to believe that this way of life is the only way of life. In such environment, it can be hard to distinguish between the good and the bad, resulting in one adapting and conforming to their surroundings. This is essentially one of the most powerful forms of influence – misconception of the norm… How can one do better if they don’t know what better looks like?.?.
 
Another unfortunate circumstance, when living in an environment where everyone around you are living in similar conditions, is the feeling of being rejected when daring to be different, better. This may cause others to become intimidated and envious, all because you believe there is a better way. This same feeling of rejection, have prevented some from breaking the cycle and wanting better for themselves. They become concerned about how their loved ones and community will treat them.
 
If this is you, try your best not to fear how others will perceive you if you don’t live “the norm.” Break the #HoodHabit and if you are looked at sideways, that means you are probably doing something right. Dare to be different! (Keep an eye out for the third post in this series).