When I think of the term “eccentric,” a vivid image often comes to mind: perhaps a quirky elderly woman surrounded by a multitude of cats, crafting baskets from hair strands collected from her brush stashed away under her bed. Alternatively, I might envision a wealthy individual with a fascination for antique dental instruments, who indulges in salsa dancing with their dog while dressed in a tutu.
Traditionally, I have linked eccentricity to unusual or quirky traits. However, a psychologist named Jonathan Hart has delved deeply into the study of eccentricity, prompting me to reassess my understanding. Hart’s website, “Embracing Eccentrics,” outlines 25 common characteristics shared by eccentric individuals, presented in order of significance. Here are the top 10 traits:
- Persistent nonconformity
- Highly creative
- Driven by an intense curiosity and a desire to explore
- A consistent feeling of being different from others
- Idealistic aspirations to improve the world and enhance happiness
- Passionately engaged in a few long-standing interests (typically around five or six)
- Above-average intelligence, placing them in the top 15% of the population
- Strong opinions and a tendency to express them, often believing they are correct
- Noncompetitive nature
- Independence from societal validation or approval
Surprisingly, I relate to 9 of these 10 traits. But does this imply I’m on the verge of becoming a cat-collecting basket weaver? Not quite. Eccentricity manifests in various forms. While some individuals may have interests that diverge from conventional norms, many eccentric people regard “normal” as a relative term that holds little significance.
Reflecting on my own life reveals numerous eccentric choices. For instance, my family opted out of sending our eldest child to kindergarten years ago and has embraced homeschooling ever since. We once spent an entire year living as nomads, traveling across the country. In hindsight, many of these choices were unconventional, but they never felt out of place to me since I don’t prioritize societal norms.
Indeed, I embody traits like nonconformity and independence from societal expectations. Creative? Absolutely. Curiosity? Boundless—I cannot fathom how anyone experiences boredom. Idealism? Certainly. Opinionated? Perhaps in writing more than in conversation. The only trait I’m uncertain about is the “happily obsessed with long-lasting preoccupations”—unless coffee and chocolate count. However, the list does mention “unusual eating habits and living arrangements.” I have no set eating schedule and have moved over a dozen times in 18 years, not including our nomadic year where we resided in a different city each month.
Based on this list, I would confidently say that the label “eccentric” fits me well—definitely. The liberating realization that I can embrace this term opens a world of possibilities! Think of those vibrant older women sporting flamboyant hats and mismatched socks; they exude confidence and care little for others’ opinions. They live life authentically and unapologetically.
Most eccentrics intuitively operate this way, but now we have a straightforward term to define our uniqueness. Instead of laboring to explain our divergence from societal norms, we can simply say, “I’m eccentric,” and leave it at that.
This identity is no longer confined to quirky hermits or flamboyant seniors. If you find yourself resonating with the traits outlined above, celebrate your eccentricity! Welcome to the club! Let’s share a fist bump in solidarity before we each follow our distinctive paths.
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In summary, embracing eccentricity can unlock a fulfilling path in life, allowing individuals to confidently express their unique traits and live authentically.
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