It’s that time of the year when we scroll past social media, watching people in other parts of the world dress up like vampires, witches, cats, or even our favourite movie characters.
Here in Nigeria, we might not be all about that Halloween life. Still, something is exciting about putting on masks, unmasking, and exploring hidden sides of ourselves. Maybe it’s time we took Halloween as a little nudge to do some self-reflection—or what do you think?
After all, Halloween is the one day a year when people feel free to be whoever they want to be, with no judgment. It’s when people throw on their wildest outfits, their boldest makeup, and, let’s be honest, sometimes very extra looks (we’ve all seen that friend go all out, right?).
Halloween Style: Find Your Look and Own It, No Judgment
Halloween is one of those times when people bring out their wildest outfits without a second thought. And you know what? Maybe we could use a bit of that confidence. We all have a style we want to try but sometimes hold back on—perhaps it’s a bold lipstick, a dress that feels a little too daring, or just a certain attitude.
Halloween reminds us to let go and express ourselves a little more authentically. If you want to rock that style, go for it! It’s time to find what makes you feel amazing and just own it- No costume party needed.
Express yourself without hesitation.
Now, we know society here comes with a lot of expectations. Everyone has an opinion, right? “Why are you dressing like that?” “Why don’t you act more like this?” It’s like an endless parade of “shoulds” and “supposed tos.” And while we might joke about it, these pressures can make us hide certain parts of ourselves. There’s this need to stay within certain lines to avoid the endless auntie questions.
But self-reflection on Halloween gives us a chance to drop those expectations, even if it’s just for a moment, and ask ourselves, “Who am I really, without all the noise?” So think of this as your “unmasking” moment. There’s freedom to be yourself. This Halloween, reflect on what you would be doing differently if you wore a mask and there was no one to judge you.
Finding Your Inner “Ghosts” (Without the Spookiness)
So here’s the thing: we all have our own little “ghosts” hiding around. These aren’t the “boo” kind of ghosts; they’re those unresolved feelings, regrets, and fears we might prefer not to think about.
Maybe it’s the job opportunity we missed, a relationship that didn’t quite work out, or just that feeling of not being enough that likes to hang around in the back of our minds—but keeping those “ghosts” hidden? It doesn’t make them disappear; it just makes them hang around longer – And we all know what happens when ghosts lurk around.
Instead of dressing up to avoid them, maybe it’s time we pull out those hidden fears, dust them off, and get to know them. By facing these hidden parts, we’re giving ourselves a fresh start. Plus, it takes away the power those “ghosts” might have had over us. After all, it’s a little less scary when you’ve named a fear. We know Halloween is all about masks, but maybe it’s time to unmask.
A Few Practical Ways to Unmask
Okay, so how do we start this journey of self-reflection without feeling like we’re overanalyzing every little thing? Here are a few ideas that might make it easier:
Challenge a “Rule”: Pick one societal “rule” and let yourself break it, even if it’s in a small way. Buy that dress that’s been on your wishlist for so long. Speak up in a situation where you’d usually stay quiet. Think of it as your little way of rebelling against unnecessary expectations.
Journal, but Make It Fun: This isn’t your “Dear Diary” moment. Try jotting down thoughts like “Today I realised I…” and see where it takes you. Let it be messy; the goal isn’t perfection—it’s honesty.
Own Your Emotions: If you’re feeling insecure, say it; if you’re feeling bold, say that too! Giving emotions names makes them a little less overwhelming. Plus, you’re acknowledging that every part of you is allowed to exist.
Here’s the tea: self-reflection doesn’t have to be all deep and heavy. Sometimes, it’s just giving ourselves permission to be real, honest, and a little bit bold.
So maybe Halloween isn’t just about us dressing up or scaring ourselves; it’s a reminder that we can express ourselves freely and are not limited to one day a year.
Let’s give ourselves the freedom to unmask, face those inner “ghosts,” and truly appreciate all the layers that make us, us.
