Blog posts

Heroism

Heroism

Fashion, Life itself

[:en]The Oxford definition of ‘heroism’ is ‘great courage” and sure, it took some great courage to walk into the Hermès store in Paris wearing this, but that’s not what I want to talk about today. I actually want to talk about courage and how I perceive courage. I believe courage is one of the main things that define who we are.

For some it might seem courageous of me to put myself out there on such a personal level on the blog, and I must admit, I sometimes do hesitate before pressing the publish button, but I almost always get back to my motto in life: “what’s the worst thing that could happen?”. You might argue that’s a question, but it’s not merely a question. It’s a way of life. Having been close to death numerous times the worst that could happen is actually to die. Things we usually are afraid of might be the fear of being embarrassed in front of someone, being rejected, not being good enough, not fitting in, or whatever it is that stops you from being yourself. So what? You’re still alive, so live your life and skip those fears of yours. I’ve skipped most (not all) of mine and am truly myself all the time. Note a pecuniar twist here though: I am truly myself all the time, but I choose when and to whom I show my true self. Because let’s face it. We all play different roles depending on what social situation we are in and being my true self in every single occasion and at all times might be devastating, so I’ve become a good chameleon, yet all the time aware of my self worth and who I am.

So to sum it up. Heroism is an act of courage and the most courageous thing you can do is to be yourself, at all times, however somewhat modified depending on the circumstances. So go out there and be yourselves all you beautiful ones!
thomas-8 thomas-9 thomas-7

Sweater: Skinnyboy
Watch: Triwa
Jeans: River Island
Bag: Louis Vuitton
Sneakers: H&M[:sv]Enligt Svenska Akademiens ordbok är definitionen av ‘heroism’ (hjälte)mod och visst krävs det nästintill hjältemod för att kliva in i Hermès butik på Rue Saint-Honoré bärandes denna tröja, men den fick faktiskt bara gillande blickar. Jag möts av gillande blickar i princip så gott som vart jag än går och i vilket sammanhang jag än är i. Varför? För att jag har mod. Jag kanske inte visar mod för stunden, men jag har modet att vara mig själv och det är i princip det modigaste man som människa kan vara. Sig själv. Utan kompromisser.

Det är många saker vi kan gå runt och vara rädda eller oroliga för; Kommer jag att klara det här? Hur kommer andra att uppfatta mig? Kommer jag att göra bort mig? Alla dessa rädslor bottnar i att vi är rädda för hur omgivningen uppfattar oss. Mitt motto eller snarare rättesnöre är “vad är det värsta som kan hända?”. Svaret är att det värsta som kan hända är att du dör. Jag har varit nära döden tillräckligt många gånger för att kunna konstatera att jag inte vill dö och att allt annat de facto är sekundärt. Det har lett till att jag alltid, utan undantag är mig själv, konstant och hela tiden. Det är dock stor skillnad på att vara sig själv och vad jag ger sken utåt av att vara. Missförstå mig inte. Jag är alltid den jag är, men vi antar alla olika roller beroende på vilket socialt sammanhang vi befinner oss i eller vem vi umgås med. Det är helt enkelt olika versioner av mitt sanna jag som personer möter, utan att jag för den skull tummar det minsta på mitt egen- eller självvärde. Det är ett yttert fåtal som verkligen får ta del av vem jag egentligen är och för allas bästa är det nog lösningen att föredra.

Så för att sammanfatta vad heroism är; Heroism är (hjälte)mod att våga vara sig själv oavsett vad och oavsett vilka svårigheter vi stöter på. Det är endast genom detta man kommer långt och når ut till människor. Så ut i livet med er gott folk och var trygga i er själva och med vem ni är!

thomas-8thomas-9thomas-7

Tröja: Skinnyboy
Klocka: Triwa
Jeans: River Island
Väska: Louis Vuitton
Sneakers: H&M[:]

78 Comments

  1. Kreshma
    October 28, 2016 at 7:05 pm

    In love with that shirt !! Yes as long as you know who you are and what you are you will be able to go places. So glad to read this post !!

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:24 pm

      Thank you so much sweetie! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  2. Andreea Birsan
    October 28, 2016 at 8:27 pm

    Haha, loved the way you started the article, made me lol. Courage is really important, we should get out of our comfort zone, and push us to be the best version of ourselves. I was really scared of starting my blog, so I kept waiting for about two years till I found the guts to finally get it going. Loved how you styled your outfit and also enjoyed reading every single line. Have a lovely weekend! <3

    Andreea,
    http://couturezilla.com/

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:25 pm

      I didn’t wait two years, but it sure took me like 6 months until I dared to actually go online with my blog. 🙂 Thank you so much for your compliments too! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  3. sofia biffi
    October 28, 2016 at 8:57 pm

    I’m totally agree with you….to be ourselves is an hard act of heroism in this society….especially ’cause is really difficult to be honest with ourselves and make a travel inside for better knowing our fears and limits….About your style I like every piece of this outfit….the sweater is so fashionable and accessories too, especially the swatch!
    Sophia
    http://www.sophiasfashiondiary.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:26 pm

      Thank you so much for your kind and wise words Sophia! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  4. Michelle Sun
    October 29, 2016 at 12:36 am

    This is such an inspiring post to read! I definitely agree that I act like myself a majority of the times, but you definitely have to cater your actions depending on your audience (such as if you’re talking to a boss versus talking to a good friend). I love that the purpose of your blog is to stay true to yourself and I’m trying to do the very same thing with my blog! Cheers to being our courageous, true selves! 🙂

    -Michelle Sun
    @missmisschelle
    http://www.missmisschelle.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:28 pm

      My dear Michelle, we’re a really courageous bunch aren’t we? 😀 Cheers to that!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  5. Bernice
    October 29, 2016 at 5:48 am

    Yes there is a certain amount of heroism that comes with blogging, especially with accounts like yours that pour out a part of your personal life to execute the perfect post. I love the courage you have to be so open with your life Thomas. All the best xx

    http://www.bunnybernice.com/single-post/2016/10/29/HH-Boutique-and-missheadhonchos

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:29 pm

      It’s comments like yours that keep me going and enable me to stay courageous! Thanks for the love!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  6. Jennifer Quattrucci
    October 29, 2016 at 10:31 pm

    You are truly one of a kind and so inspiring! These pictures are extraordinarily fabulous and I love all you wrote. Such a pleasure to follow you.

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:29 pm

      Jennifer, thank you so much for the love! I’m so glad you’re now part of my life!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  7. Christine Kong
    October 30, 2016 at 12:03 am

    I love this sweater but I love the post more. I agree, we always have to ask ourselves what is the worst that can happen and in the end the “worst” isn’t even that bad. Staying true to ourselves is definitely scary but in the end it’s all that matters. xoxo, Christine
    http://dailykongfidence.com/

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:30 pm

      Great minds think alike my dear Christine! 🙂 Thanks for the love!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  8. Gina Diaz
    October 30, 2016 at 12:41 am

    Awesome styling Thomas!! I love this sweater and the fact that the word Heroism is in gold. It makes a great statement. Everything that you have expressed in here is so true babe, and sometimes also true that most of the things that we are afraid of, do not happen. Great post!

    Xx, Gina

    http://www.artsyrunway.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:31 pm

      Exactly, the things we worry about are usually things that never even had the slightest chance of happening so we need to stop worrying!
      Love,
      Thomas

  9. gracie
    October 30, 2016 at 1:44 am

    your sweatshirt it so cool!!! I love this so much ! Photography is amazing as well..such a great post!

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:31 pm

      Thank you so much Gracie 🙂

  10. diana
    October 30, 2016 at 5:37 am

    looking great as always. well written article!

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:32 pm

      Thanks a lot Diana! 🙂

  11. Lily Rose
    October 30, 2016 at 2:21 pm

    What a lovely note to remind us to live life to the fullest by being ourselves! Love your writing, love your outfit and the setting in the photos is amazing too Thomas. And what’s wrong with entering the Hermes store looking like that? You look great and very chic dear 🙂

    -Lily from With Love Lily Rose

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:32 pm

      Haha, the only thing wrong might a slight copyright infringement issue… But apart from that, nothing 🙂 Thanks for the love! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  12. Tori
    October 30, 2016 at 5:00 pm

    Dear Thomas,
    I really enjoyed reading your Blogpost <3 thank you so much!!!!
    Your sweatshirt so cool!! Love it!!

    Love,
    Tori
    https://abouttori.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:33 pm

      Dear Tori, thank you so much for your kind words! 🙂
      Love,
      Thomas

  13. Jo
    October 30, 2016 at 7:15 pm

    Another great post, Thomas! Truly inspiring. Love your rad sweatshirt! 🙂

    xo, Jo
    http://www.cutandchic.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:33 pm

      Thanks sweetie! 😀
      xoxo
      Thomas

  14. Jo
    October 30, 2016 at 10:08 pm

    I love this post and the word “heroism”. Being ourselves is really what matters even though it could be hard for each of us. Thanks for being so inspiring all the time, Thomas.

    xo,
    Jo

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:34 pm

      Aww, all the time even? Jeez, I’m getting anxious about what to write next, haha. 🙂 Thanks for the love babe!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  15. Candace
    October 31, 2016 at 1:37 am

    Such an encouraging post! Only the best can happen when we’re truly ourselves and including not afraid to be such on social media as well. I love the gold foil on that top and this look! 🙂

    http://www.thebeautybeau.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:34 pm

      Thank you for your compliments dear Candace! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  16. Miki
    October 31, 2016 at 1:39 am

    I love this post Thomas! Such an inspiring one Plus, I love this sweater! You have such great photos and style!
    It really does take a lot of courage to actually just be yourself. Not everyone will accept who you are, but the ones who do are the ones worth having in your life anyways. 🙂 Seriously though, If you went into Hermes with that cool shirt, I want to see the faces of the staff.

    Xo,
    Miki
    http://mikialamode.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:35 pm

      Hahaha, when we meet up somewhere and there’s a Hermés store nearby I’ll be sure to wear it babe! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  17. Rachel
    October 31, 2016 at 8:55 am

    You looks great!

    http://chicglamstyle.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:35 pm

      Thanks a lot Rachel! 🙂

  18. Julia
    October 31, 2016 at 10:41 am

    I love your sweater and your introductory paragraph!
    On a more serious note, the question ‘what’s the worst thing that could happen?’ is something I often ask myself too! I then spend hours debating that before having the courage to actually do something! I agree that being yourself all the time is the most courageous thing of all!
    Julia x
    http://www.thevelvetrunway.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:36 pm

      I’m glad we agree on that and that you’ve also found the courage to be yourself! I applaud your courage sweetie! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  19. gigi
    October 31, 2016 at 3:32 pm

    I so agree with you! It can often times be so hard to put ourselves out there, but why? We are who we are and should always be proud of that and not afraid of what anyone else thinks! xx

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:36 pm

      My point exactly, Gigi dear! Let’s keep it that way! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  20. Atsuna Matsui
    October 31, 2016 at 4:09 pm

    Speaking of courage.. this is one of my favorite quotes regarding courage, “Courage is doing what you’re afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you’re scared.”-Eddie Rickenbacker. I enjoy collecting quotes that resonate with me during my pass time so that on days when I’m down, I can refer to my quote collection to feel happy and motivated again.

    xoxo
    http://www.atsunamatsui.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:37 pm

      I love your collection of quotes out of which you have shared some on my blog as well, Atsuna! 🙂 This one was very accurate indeed! Thank you for sharing it with me!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  21. Stephanie
    October 31, 2016 at 4:50 pm

    I love your courage and bravery. I love this look. And I hope one day I get to know you well enough that you feel comfortable being your true self! Fantastic post, as always, Thomas!

    Stephanie // SheSawStyle.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:38 pm

      I’m sure we’ll get there, Stephanie! I’m glad I have you in my life! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  22. Ed from My Dapper Self
    October 31, 2016 at 7:44 pm

    Great post, Thomas. My takeaway is this: “Heroism is an act of courage and the most courageous thing you can do is to be yourself.”
    How hard it can be to actually be yourself, everyday, in all circumstances, when you have judging eyes all around you. I applaud anyone who has managed to overcome this fear of being one’s self without any fear. I am still working on it as I type.

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:39 pm

      Well, my dear friend Ed, the more you work on it the faster it goes away. Practice makes perfekt right? 🙂 So next time you’re typing, don’t work so much on it ok?

  23. Brittany
    October 31, 2016 at 9:25 pm

    Never truer words! I really enjoyed reading his post- a great breath of fresh air and boost of confidence! Also love that sweater <3

    http://www.outofofficeny.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:39 pm

      Thank you so much for the love Brittany! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  24. Abdelkhalek
    October 31, 2016 at 10:05 pm

    Very stylish, love your sweater

    http://www.abdelkhalekleblog.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:40 pm

      Thanks a lot, buddy! 🙂

  25. Jenn Hanft
    November 1, 2016 at 1:24 am

    Aw I completely agree, Thomas!! Aside from being our own worst enemy, having courage to be ourselves completely for the world to see is pure strength. We live in a society that expects us to conform and so sometimes when being ourselves fall outside that line, it’s hard to not listen. We should never filter ourself for the benefit of others. Great outfit as always!

    XO Jenn
    http://www.jennsemble.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:40 pm

      As true as it gets, Jenn! You’re one wise spirit right there beside me! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  26. beckerman girls
    November 1, 2016 at 1:24 am

    You looook awesome! Love your sweater and your blog rocks!
    xo Beckerman Girls
    http://www.BeckermanBlog.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:41 pm

      Thank you so much girls! 🙂

  27. Sydney Style Blogger
    November 1, 2016 at 2:40 am

    Fabulous post Thomas! With regards to the last statement, I think what you meant is that we are socially aware in the midst of being ourselves. We all have different versions of ourselves that we present in different situations. That’s because we are multifaceted beings!! Being the same person in every situation would be boring! I’m glad you’re on the road to promoting who you are in every arena! x

    http://www.sydney-styleblogger.blogspot.com.au

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:41 pm

      A very correct interpretation of my last statement sweetie! 🙂 Thanks for the love!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  28. caprice bianca
    November 1, 2016 at 2:47 am

    Love your sweater Thomas! I love how you speak so candidly and are so honest. It’s nice to know how real you are. Its so true many of us put on different faces depending on the situation. Good to know some people still keep it real 🙂 Love your posts xxoo

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:42 pm

      Keeping it real is the hard part, putting on faces the easy one. I’m glad you see past that 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  29. Maryam
    November 1, 2016 at 3:04 am

    Great post Thomas! I must agree, being yourself is very courageous and yet the best way to live your life!

    xo, Maryam
    http://www.glamandposh.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:42 pm

      Thank you so much for your kind words, Maryam! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  30. Linh Dao
    November 1, 2016 at 3:44 am

    I love your outfit! You are rocking the sweaters lately! I also completely understand you about hesitating to press the button about sharing things! So thank you for sharing! I love your honesty!

    Linh
    http://xcapewithlinh.com/are-you-financially-independent/

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:43 pm

      Haha, thanks, I do as long as I can. Soon it’s gonna be winter on full time here and it’s no mild one we’re talking about either… Thank you for all your love!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  31. lydia webb
    November 1, 2016 at 5:33 am

    Such inspiring words! I can definitely appreciate the fear and hesitation of putting it all out there on the blog or anywhere in life. Thanks for the Monday motivation!

    xo, Lydia
    http://www.JettingJewels.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:44 pm

      I’m glad I could give you some Monday motivation, dear Lydia! Let’s stay on track! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  32. emma
    November 1, 2016 at 9:27 am

    your style is very on trend 🙂

    Looking forward to the next post!!

    http://www.londonstylegirl.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:44 pm

      Thanks a lot Emma! 🙂

  33. Aldora
    November 1, 2016 at 1:04 pm

    Love the gold prints on your sweatshirt Thomas! And cheers to your courageous spirit xx

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:44 pm

      Thanks a lot Aldora and cheers right back at you! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  34. Tania
    November 1, 2016 at 9:57 pm

    Love this outfit you’ve put together, the sweatshirt is really cool! I think it’s awesome that you’re putting yourself out there and staying true to yourself!

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:45 pm

      Thank you so much for your kind words, Tania! 🙂

  35. Cece Lam
    November 2, 2016 at 4:52 am

    I love the way your describe heroism, Thomas!! Thanks for sharing w us your truest self 🙂 it can be rare to come across nowadays.

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:45 pm

      Aww, thanks Cece! I appreciate getting compliments from you!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  36. samira
    November 2, 2016 at 6:33 am

    love your posts thomas! this sweatshirt is so cool and i love the way you styled it!

    xo, samira

    http://www.leathertolunch.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 2, 2016 at 3:46 pm

      Thanks for the love Samira! 🙂
      xoxo
      Thomas

  37. Darlene
    November 2, 2016 at 5:46 pm

    I wonder what they said in the hermes store when you walked in? hahahaha did they like it or not? Love where you took the photos and you look like a supermodel!

    xxxx
    Darlene

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 9, 2016 at 3:39 pm

      Haha, I’m actually sure they liked it 😀 And thank you so much for your kind words!
      xoxo
      Thomas

  38. Sheela Goh
    November 4, 2016 at 4:59 pm

    How right you are, Thomas. In a world of filters and photo-enhancement software, true courage comes from baring oneself, both metaphorically as well as literally. I’m so glad to have come across your blog, you’ve found a new fan in me.

    p/s I hope they didn’t rough you up too much at Hermes GRIN

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 9, 2016 at 3:40 pm

      Aww thank you so much Sheela! I’m a big fan right back at you! 🙂 (and no, they actually gave me a compliment for wearing it, haha)
      xoxo
      Thomas

  39. Eric K
    November 4, 2016 at 10:00 pm

    You are so right buddy .. It’s takes one brave person to be courageous. Not everyone can be. I look forward to read your blogs buddy …
    http://www.erickfashion.com

    • thomasfalkenstedt.com
      November 9, 2016 at 3:41 pm

      Thank you so much Eric! Your support means a lot to me!

Comments are closed.