In the 1980s, the term “nerd” was a bullying insult. Today, it’s a badge of honor to be called a nerd. Misfit is currently a term that carries negative connotations. Misfit is defined as “a person whose behavior or attitude sets them apart from others in an uncomfortably conspicuous way,” or “something that does not fit or that fits badly.” Fits badly into what exactly? Typically, it means fits badly into what the vast majority would deem “normal” in society.
Adam Grant’s book Originals delves into how non-conformists are the ones responsible for changing the world. A non-conformist is defined as “a person whose behavior or views do not conform to prevailing ideas or practices.” Not far off from a misfit really, but a book about how misfits are responsible for changing the world may not be as appetizing. Although the world may not be ready to embrace the term misfit, it’s the people who dare to think differently, to live differently, that prefer carving new paths instead of walking on well-trodden ground. Misfits care more about living differently than they do about what people think about their choice to do so.
The Constant State...of Getting There 