My Way Day

Quick facts
When is it?	Every February 17th
Tagged as:	Attitudes & Emotions Life & Living
What's the hashtag?	#MyWayDay
Who founded it?	Thomas & Ruth Roy (Wellcat Holidays)
We first published this page on:	Dec 23rd, 2017
We last updated this page:	Jan 20th, 2026

Contents

In a world full of trends, templates, and “that’s how it’s always been done,” My Way Day offers a playful nudge in the opposite direction.

It celebrates healthy individualism, creative independence, and the oddly satisfying feeling of doing something simply because it fits, even if it fits nobody else. The spirit is simple: choose a path, make it personal, and let the results look like you.

How to Celebrate My Way Day

Of course, the most important thing to do in celebration of My Way Day is to exercise individualism and creativity.

“Doing it your way” does not have to mean being contrary or dramatic. It can be as quiet as finally admitting a preference, as brave as changing direction, or as small as designing a routine that matches real life rather than an idealized version of it.

The point is intention: selecting what aligns with personal values, tastes, goals, or comfort, and then actually following through.

A useful rule of thumb for My Way Day is: do what feels like a genuine expression of self while still respecting safety, legality, and other people’s boundaries. Individuality shines brightest when it does not require stepping on anyone else’s toes.

Be an Individual

One of the best things about My Way Day is that it encourages—and gives permission—for people to step away from the crowd. That can show up through physical appearance, the way someone dresses, or even how they choose to walk, talk, sing, or dance.

Whatever the form, embracing individuality is a powerful reason to say “do it my way,” to express yourself, and to show the world how special each person truly is.

For some, individuality is bold and visible. Clothing becomes an easy canvas: mixing patterns that supposedly “don’t go together,” reviving a forgotten accessory, wearing a favorite color head to toe, or choosing comfort over convention. Personal style can be a small daily declaration that each person gets to decide what feels right in their own body.

For others, individuality is quieter and more internal. It can look like:

Communicating preferences plainly. Choosing the restaurant that genuinely sounds good instead of defaulting to “whatever.”
Saying no without over-explaining. Declining invitations that drain energy, even when they feel socially expected.
Letting hobbies be unproductive. Enjoying something purely for pleasure, without pressure to monetize or optimize it.
Owning a niche interest. Loving a genre, topic, craft, or sport that no one else in the friend group follows.

My Way Day is also an invitation to notice where “the crowd” quietly shapes decisions. Many people absorb routines, career paths, and even personalities by osmosis.

This day offers a moment to pause and ask a few clarifying questions: Does this choice align with personal values? Does it make everyday life easier or harder? Would it still appeal if no one noticed or praised it?

A practical way to practice individuality is to choose one area of life and personalize it with intention:

Food: Cook something that reflects personal cravings, cultural roots, or dietary needs, even if it isn’t currently fashionable.
Movement: Pick an activity that feels good rather than one that looks impressive. Walking, stretching, dancing in the living room, lifting weights, or learning a new sport all count.
Work style: When possible, arrange tasks to match natural energy levels. Some people thrive in the morning; others peak later in the day. Doing it “your way” can be as simple as reshuffling a to-do list.
Home life: Rearrange a space for comfort and function rather than appearance, or create a small “comfort station” with a book, headphones, a blanket, or art supplies.

The goal is not to prove uniqueness. It is to practice self-trust—to make choices because they fit, not because they blend.

Get Inspired to Do it Your Own Way

Listening to, watching, or reading other peoples stories of how they did things their own way can be an ideal way to celebrate My Way Day. Sometimes it helps to have the inspiration of a person who worked hard, overcame the odds, expressed themselves and did things their own way! Check out some of these stories that lend themselves to the important theme of the day, including self-expression and going your own way:

Forrest Gump (1994). Although he doesn’t necessarily have huge aspirations for his life, Forrest (played by Tom Hanks) is a genuine, lovable and authentic character who really does do things his own way.
Joy (2015). In this biographical comedic drama, Jennifer Lawrence portrays a single mom who really needs a break into the business world, so she invents a new product and eventually becomes a self-made millionaire with a style all her own.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013). In a rare expression of Ben Stiller’s more serious side, this film tells the story of the way Walter finally lives out the adventures that have been going on inside his head.
Bridget Jones’ Diary (2001). Bridget Jones (played by Renée Zellweger) offers a delightful peek into the life of a decidedly average and “unsuccessful” British woman in her thirties. But her heart, soul and unique way of being herself make her one-of-a-kind.

Listen to a My Way Day Playlist

One super fun way to celebrate My Way Day is by creating a playlist that pulls together songs from different eras and genres, all connected by the same idea: doing things your own way. Naturally, that theme brings to mind My Way—the ultimate anthem of self-determination. But the spirit of My Way Day stretches far beyond one song.

Here are a few other tracks that fit the mood and help set the tone:

Get Up, Stand Up (1973) – Bob Marley
It’s My Life (2000) – Bon Jovi
Go Your Own Way (1977) – Fleetwood Mac
What a Feeling (1983) – Irene Cara

A My Way Day playlist can be more than background music. It can become the soundtrack to a personal “choose-your-own-adventure” day, where each song supports a different kind of independence:

Defiant independence: tracks that help push through doubt, judgment, or resistance.
Hopeful momentum: songs for starting something new, even if it’s messy or uncertain.
Quiet confidence: music that feels steady, grounded, and self-possessed.
Creative weirdness: the songs that make no sense to anyone else, but feel completely right to you.

To make the playlist feel truly personal, try organizing it around moments instead of genres:

A “wake up and decide” opener that feels like a reset.
A “try anyway” song for taking a small risk—making a call, sending a message, signing up for a class.
A “solo joy” section for walking, driving, cleaning, or cooking.
A “closing credits” track that signals satisfaction, whether the day was productive or simply enjoyable.

My Way Day is also a reminder that taste itself is a form of individuality. No one needs to justify what they like. If one person’s personal anthem is a classic standard and another’s is a niche electronic track, both are doing it exactly right.

My Way Day Timeline

1712

Locke’s “Essay Concerning Human Understanding”

John Locke emphasizes personal identity and experience, helping lay the groundwork for modern ideas about the autonomous individual.[1]

1844

Marx’s Manuscripts Critique Individualism

Karl Marx’s Economic and Philosophic Manuscripts analyze alienation under capitalism, challenging purely self‑interested views of the individual.[2]

1859

Mill Publishes “On Liberty”

John Stuart Mill defends individual freedom of thought and lifestyle so long as others are not harmed, shaping liberal ideas of personal autonomy.[3]

1943

Maslow Proposes the Hierarchy of Needs

Abraham Maslow’s paper on a theory of human motivation introduces self‑actualization, stressing each person’s drive to fulfill unique potential.[4]

1951

Rogers’ Client-Centered Therapy and the “Real Self”

Carl Rogers’ work on client‑centered therapy highlights authenticity, unconditional acceptance, and living in line with one’s true self.[5]

1967–1969

“Comme d’habitude” Becomes “My Way”

French song “Comme d’habitude” (1967) is adapted by Paul Anka as “My Way,” recorded by Frank Sinatra in 1969, and embraced as an anthem of doing things one’s own way.[6]

1998

Frankl’s “Man’s Search for Meaning” Gains Wider Reach

Viktor Frankl’s reflections on finding personal meaning under extreme conditions continue to influence late‑20th‑century views on purposeful, self‑directed living.

History of My Way Day

The history of My Way Day can be traced to its founders, Thomas Roy and his wife, Ruth Roy. Together, they are also behind Wellcat Herbs and the creation of dozens of themed observances—many of them delightfully unusual, occasionally obscure, and often more thoughtful than they first appear.

My Way Day may have been inspired by moments in history when progress happened simply because someone had a bold idea and chose to follow it through.

Thomas and Ruth Roy are known for designing lighthearted observances that quietly ask bigger questions. In that tradition, My Way Day stands out because it centers on something nearly universal: personal agency.

It takes the familiar phrase “It’s my way or the highway” and flips its meaning. Instead of sounding rigid or controlling, the day reframes “my way” as something empowering and personal. It is not about insisting others fall in line—it is about choosing a path that genuinely fits.

That distinction matters. When used in everyday language, the phrase can feel domineering. My Way Day shifts the focus away from dominance and toward self-determination.

It is not about forcing a room to revolve around one personality. It is about recognizing that blending in is not the same as belonging, and that individuality does not require permission.

At its core, the idea of My Way Day is simple: it is a day where each individual is encouraged to do what they want, in the way that feels right to them.

In practice, that freedom comes with a few natural guardrails that keep the concept joyful rather than chaotic. “Do whatever you want” works best when paired with common sense:

Keep it legal and safe. Independence is not worth unnecessary risk.
Respect consent and shared spaces. One person’s “my way” should not become someone else’s burden.
Choose what fits real life. Celebrating can be bold or small—both count.

The spirit of My Way Day aligns with a long-standing appreciation for individuality: inventors who tinker, artists who refuse to imitate, entrepreneurs who build niche solutions, students who learn differently, and quiet people who protect their boundaries.

Progress often begins when someone stops asking, “What do people usually do?” and starts asking, “What makes sense for me?”

Do you feel like watching every Bond film in a row while wearing a onesie and eating chocolate? Go for it. Prefer something more ambitious, like finally starting that novel you have been thinking about for years? That works too.

Those examples highlight an important feature of My Way Day: there is no required level of seriousness. A person can celebrate with silliness, with ambition, or with a mix of both. The common thread is intention—choosing without apology and without needing validation.

For those who want to add a “my way” twist to something ordinary, small changes can be surprisingly powerful:

Rework a standard meal: breakfast for dinner, a forgotten family recipe, a new spice, or a plate built entirely from favorite snacks.
Change the environment: work from a different room, rearrange a desk, adjust lighting, or create a small comfort nook.
Try a one-day experiment: talk less, talk more, take a social media break, or replace scrolling with reading, sketching, or building something.
Take a micro-lesson: learn a few guitar chords, a handful of phrases in a new language, a simple magic trick, or a new way to cook a staple food.
Make something “unnecessary” on purpose: decorate a plain object, write a short poem, create a silly collage, or paint something tiny just because it feels fun.

For many people, the most meaningful version of “my way” is not louder—it is clearer. That might mean setting a boundary, simplifying a schedule, or letting go of an expectation that never truly fit.

My Way Day is your day—just make sure whatever you choose is legal. And do not be surprised if friends do not join you; they are probably busy doing things their own way, too.

That is part of the charm. My Way Day is not automatically a group activity, and it does not require consensus to succeed. In fact, celebrating individually may be the point. The best version of “my way” always leaves room for “your way,” creating a world where personality is not a problem to solve, but a feature to enjoy.

Facts About My Way Day

My Way Day is all about individuality, personal choice, and the confidence to live life on your own terms. The facts below explore where the idea of “my way” comes from, how it became part of popular culture, and why authenticity and self-direction continue to resonate across generations, music, and even mental well-being.

The French Roots of “My Way”

The anthem of individualism, “My Way” began not in English, but as the 1967 French pop song “Comme d’habitude” (“As Usual”), written by Jacques Revaux, Gilles Thibault, and singer Claude François about the dull collapse of a relationship.

Canadian songwriter Paul Anka acquired the rights, kept only the basic melody and structure, and wrote entirely new English lyrics tailored to Frank Sinatra’s persona—transforming a song of routine resignation into a declaration of self-directed life.
Sinatra’s “My Way” Was a Hit He Didn’t Much Like

Although “My Way” became one of Frank Sinatra’s signature songs and a mainstay of his live shows, he reportedly grew to dislike it, calling it “self-serving and indulgent,” according to his daughter Tina Sinatra.

Despite his misgivings, the 1969 single spent an extraordinary 75 weeks in the UK Top 40 and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2000, illustrating how strongly audiences embraced its message of living life on one’s own terms.
A Song Adopted Across Generations and Genres

“My Way” has been reinterpreted by artists with radically different public images, which has helped cement it as a cultural shorthand for doing things one’s own way.

Elvis Presley recorded a powerful live version in 1977 that reached No. 22 on the U.S. charts after his death, while Sex Pistols bassist Sid Vicious turned it into a snarling punk send‑up that still charted in the UK Top 10—showing how both icons of mainstream entertainment and rebellion alike claimed the song’s core idea of defiant self-direction.
Authenticity Is Linked to Better Mental Health

Psychological research finds that people who habitually accept their own thoughts and emotions—rather than suppressing or judging them—tend to have better mental health and higher life satisfaction.

In a series of studies, individuals who were more accepting of their internal experiences showed fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety, partly because they reacted with less intense negative emotion when faced with everyday stressors, suggesting that allowing oneself to “be as one is” can be psychologically protective.
Routine Self-Expression Online Can Be Healthier Than Obsessive Use

A nationally representative U.S. study from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that using social media as a routine, low‑pressure way to connect and share—such as casually responding to others’ posts—was associated with better social well‑being and self‑rated health.

By contrast, feeling emotionally “hooked” on social media, such as constantly checking for feedback or fearing disconnection, was linked to poorer mental health, highlighting that self-expression tends to help when it feels chosen rather than compulsive.
Individualism as a Modern Western Ideal

Contemporary Western ideas about “doing it my way” have deep philosophical roots in the individualism that rose to prominence from the Enlightenment onward.

Thinkers like John Locke emphasized personal autonomy and rights, and later 19th‑century writers such as Ralph Waldo Emerson argued that “self-reliance” and nonconformity were moral duties—ideas that helped shift social norms away from rigid deference to tradition and toward celebrating the unique perspective and conscience of each person.
Our Brains Filter the World Through What We Personally Care About

Neuroscience and psychology research shows that people do not passively record daily life the same way; instead, the brain carves experience into “chapters” based on what each person is paying attention to and cares about.

A Columbia University study using brain imaging found that the points where people segmented events depended strongly on their current goals and concerns, illustrating that individuals literally construct their own version of the day according to what matters to them most.

My Way Day FAQs

How does expressing individuality affect mental health?

Psychology and mental health literature suggest that healthy self-expression and embracing one’s individuality can reduce stress and anxiety, improve self-awareness, and support better emotional regulation, which in turn can boost resilience and overall psychological well-being.

Conversely, chronically suppressing one’s true preferences and identity is associated with higher levels of distress, depression, and a sense of disconnection from oneself and others. [1]

Is putting personal needs first the same as being selfish?

Researchers and clinicians generally distinguish between healthy self-prioritization and selfishness.

Setting boundaries, stating preferences, and making autonomous choices are seen as key parts of psychological well-being, while selfishness typically involves disregarding the rights, needs, or welfare of others.

In practice, people can act authentically while still honoring ethical responsibilities and mutual respect in their relationships and communities. [2]

How do psychologists explain the human need to “do things my own way”?

Self-determination theory, a widely studied framework in psychology, proposes that humans have three basic psychological needs: autonomy (feeling in control of one’s actions), competence (feeling effective), and relatedness (feeling connected to others).

The impulse to “do it my way” is often an expression of the autonomy need; when autonomy is supported, people tend to show better motivation, performance, and mental health outcomes. [3]

Can strong individualism harm social connections?

While valuing individual choice can encourage creativity and self-reliance, research shows that intense or extreme individualism may contribute to greater loneliness, isolation, and alienation if it weakens social ties.

Studies reviewed by the American Psychological Association link perceived social isolation and lack of supportive relationships with higher risks of depression, poorer cognitive health, and even increased mortality, highlighting the importance of balancing personal autonomy with connection. [4]

How can someone express individuality at work or school without causing conflict?

Experts often recommend combining clear self-expression with skills like perspective-taking and collaborative problem-solving.

This can include stating one’s preferences and ideas using “I” statements, seeking input from others, and looking for compromises that respect both personal style and group goals.

Communication training and structured activities, such as team-based games and role-plays, are commonly used to help people practice asserting themselves while maintaining positive, cooperative relationships. [5]

Is it unhealthy to hide parts of one’s identity to fit in?

Consistently masking or hiding important aspects of identity—such as values, interests, or emotions—has been linked to increased stress, internal conflict, and a reduced sense of authenticity.

Mental health practitioners note that this kind of suppression can contribute to anxiety, depression, and burnout over time, particularly when people feel they must constantly perform a socially acceptable version of themselves rather than being genuine. [6]

Why do some cultures encourage standing out while others emphasize fitting in?

Cross-cultural psychology describes societies along an individualism–collectivism spectrum.

In more individualistic cultures, such as the United States, personal achievements, independence, and distinctiveness are often emphasized, whereas in more collectivistic cultures, like many in East Asia, harmony, duty, and group cohesion are more strongly valued.

These cultural norms shape how acceptable it is to “go your own way,” as well as how people negotiate between personal desires and group expectations. [7]