Don’t Settle for the Franchise Version of Life

Why are franchise restaurants so popular?

Because they take the guesswork out of eating. You know what to expect regarding the menu, décor, and vibe. Franchise restaurants are predictable and safe.

But an intentional life shouldn’t be confined to what is safe. Sometimes we need to branch outside the conformity and predictability of the “franchise version” of life.

That’s why my husband and I have a rule when we go on vacation: If at all possible we avoid eating at franchise restaurants. Because vacation is about exploring unknown places, and non-franchise eating spots are much more likely to feature local color and local specialties. True, we don’t know if we’ll have an awesome meal or a so-so one, but that’s part of the adventure.

The owners of those local restaurants have taken a risk—creating a unique eating spot rather opting to conform to the standards of some franchise. How many tourists pass them by (even if they’re the best eatery in town) simply because they aren’t a recognized brand name?

Are you stuck in somebody else’s franchise?

Franchised conformity goes way beyond restaurant menus. No matter what groups we belong to, there is a “franchise” model of how to behave, how to look, how to think.

We can conform to those expectations.

Or choose not to.

Generally speaking, conformity is the easy way out. The safe choice. The low-stress, no-thinking-required formula for living out our days. But it often comes at the cost of honoring our true selves. Deep in our hearts we know when we are being real and when we are playing along in order to conform. So why do we continue to live in “franchise world” instead of going solo and living a free and authentic life?

• Because the pressures to conform are painfully real
• Because going against the tide takes effort
• Because the last time we dared to be different we were criticized or shamed.

Is conforming to a group’s standards really so awful?

No, but like eating in franchise restaurants, it should not be our sole choice! Now and then we need to intentionally move beyond the safety of conformity and exert our individuality.

Here are five small ways you can honor your true self without turning into a radical, non-conformist rebel.   

Don’t always conform to the “franchise version” of life

1. Once in a while stand up for your personal preference. Forget about what’s “in.” Forget about pleasing others by letting them choose. Pick something that pleases YOU. A restaurant, a movie, a song, whatever. Enjoy something that “sparks joy” in your heart despite what those around you think of it.
2. Quit some activity you are only doing to fit in. Maybe you thought you’d enjoy it. But you don’t—not if you are being honest with yourself. So stop wasting your time and energy on something you don’t enjoy, something that’s draining energy rather than adding it. Give yourself permission to say, “No thanks, it just isn’t my thing.”
3. Learn about something that has always fascinated you. Go to a museum, watch a documentary, join a club or a class. Honor your God-given passions by intentionally seeking out things that fascinate and excite you—no matter how impractical or oddball your interests! You don’t need permission to explore God’s world.  Who knows where your investigations may lead.
4. Dare to be different. Start small. Voice a contrary opinion. Admit you enjoy listening to opera. Wear something unique that flaunts your style. Whatever. Each tiny step is a small victory over the “franchise version” of life.
5. Dream big. If you could live your ideal life, what would it look like? If money and life circumstances were not hindering you, what would you do with your life? Make a list of at least ten answers to the question, considering it from different angles (career, family, ministry, etc.). Pray about your dreams. Who knows when something on your dream list will spark an idea that you can realistically pursue. 

I hope these ideas help you in your journey to a better, more joyful and authentic version of yourself.