"Sometimes the most logical thing to do is the opposite of what everyone else is doing." - Warren Buffett
We always do what people do in life, follow the crowd, and decide by majority. But is it always the correct decision? Does it ever make sense to do the opposite of what everybody else is doing, swim against the tide and go our own way? In this article, we will talk about going against the norm, taking risks, and whether it ever makes sense to do so.
The Power of Contrarian Thinking
Contrarian thinking is swimming against the tide, doing the opposite of the crowd. It involves swimming against the tide, countering popular wisdom, and going against the grain of what most people are doing. Contrarian minds are usually perceived as revolutionaries, disruptors, or instigators. But they are also the ones who make a difference, generate innovation, and drive progress. They are the ones who go outside the box, who have no fear of taking a risk, and who don't mind being alone if that's what it takes.
Advantages of Contrarianism
Contrarianism has its advantages. By going against the flow, you may be able to perceive opportunities others missed. You may be able to avoid pitfalls others walked into. You may be able to think more originally, more abstractly, and more independently. You can maybe make your own fate, do your own thing, and live life your own way. In a world that at times values conformity over all else, being contrarian will set you apart, will make you stand out, and will lead to success beyond your wildest dreams.
Risks of Going Against the Grain
Of course, defying the trend is not always secure. You can be blamed, rejected, or even mocked by people who cannot understand your choices. You may have to deal with doubt, self-doubt, and fear while forging new ground. You may find yourself being alone, separated, and receiving no support from others. But if you trust in yourself, your vision, and your ideas, then the payoff of being contrarian can be well worth the risks.
Is it then a good idea to do what everyone else is not doing in life? The answer is not just yes or no. It will be dependent on the circumstances, on your aims, and on what you care about most. Doing the opposite every now and again can bring enormous success. At times this may lead to success. Sometimes, it may lead to failure. One thing for certain, though: going against the crowd takes courage, conviction, and tolerance for risk. It requires you to have faith in your gut, follow your heart, and believe in yourself when no one else believes in you. So the next time you're there stuck in that situation thinking about whether to join the crowd and do what everyone else is doing, be a rebel, break the mold, and do the opposite. You never know, it could be the best thing you ever did.