Liking things makes us who we are. Things like our hobbies, the music we listen to, the brands we wear, the food and drinks we consume. And it’s OK to like the things that you like. 

Over the course of a college career, changes in personal tastes in clothing, music, activities and hobbies are almost always a certainty. We always heard we could be and like whatever we wanted, but lately it feels like that is not always the case. In truth, we all need to realize that it is OK to like the things that we are passionate about.

This goes for everything, from the obscure to the popular. Music is something we all can easily relate and gravitate towards, and with everyone’s taste different, we are bound to disagree. Just because you prefer something experimental and against the grain while everyone seemingly falls into place with the newest top 20 hits does not make your choice any less valid. And for those who love the top 20, it isn’t wrong to like something that is popular. 

There is a point where we all couldn’t find the appeal in something. Whether it’s not connecting with a certain piece of music, understanding when people want to put up Christmas lights in October or something even as simple as understanding the popularity of a limited time flavored coffee (I see you, pumpkin spice lovers). But the possibility of falling into a pitfall of judgement is common. 

There isn’t an incorrect answer to the questions, “Do you like going to sporting events?” and “Do you like pumpkin spice?” Is it wrong to disagree? No, but it is not right to think that there is a correct answer to those questions.

Looking back, I was guilty of this myself, and at heart we all have been at one point and another. We have all once looked at something and thought, “No one really should like this,” “they are just going with the crowd” or “it’s just trying to be different.”

Learning to embrace others in what they like is the correct answer. Being complimentary of other people’s tastes brings out the best of everyone involved.

The idea that your tastes define who you are isn’t completely correct. The things you are passionate about are a part of what makes everyone unique. It’s OK to like the things you care about, because it’s OK to be yourself.