Conformity and Nonconformity

This blog is in response to the class discussion about whether or not I am personally a conformist or nonconformist.  If being a conformist means I believe social norms, then I am not a conformist.  I do not believe with many popularly held beliefs, and I am in fact very opinionated,  I just monitor myself in order to not cause more trouble by voicing my opinion instead of keeping quiet. My opinions are my own, and I often choose to not comply with many things, mostly noteably writing format or debating in class.  I think the easiest way to be successful in society is to follow the rules, good and bad.  Nonconformity will make you a target in many ways,  like being attacked for your ideals, interests, or even appearance.   The big question facing non conformity is whether or not the social risk of nonconformity is worth taking, and what do you get for being a nonconformist?  Nonconformity seems to allow more personal freedom to develop yourself by your own terms, as well as the ability to live by your own standards.  How can I go about being the nonconformist that I am?  Completely opposing what I do not believe is a poor choice, because both myself and my opposition is hindered by my tenacity.  Being young and nonconformist is much harder that being older and nonconformist, because there is already the stigma that you are a bellicous individual that will oppose set boundaries just to oppose them.  Is it easier to be a nonconformist in your youth or as an older person?  Some nonconformity is expected in youth, but is it seen in a more drastic light as an older person?  I'm not sure because I myself haven't experienced independence yet, but I have encountered opposition to myself expressing my opinions and beliefs as I see fit. Whatever the case, natural opposition to society will be harshly received by society, even if the rewards of nonconformity are appealing.  But the appeals of conformity are also intriquing.   You will naturally be well-received if you give in to conformist ideals, and you will be included into society if you conform.  The possibility of living a life with other people, even if that means living by their standards, is extremely appealing to me.  I love spending time with people, but sometimes I hate the monotony and irrelevance of things like school or work.  I don't think I would ever do what Chris McCandless did, but I admire his courage and tenacity in standing up for what he believed.  So I guess if I had to categorize myself, I'd be a closet nonconformist, because my opinions are my own and I will fight for them, but I see no problem with doing that while fitting into society.