Is ''misfit'' the right word?

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I have never mentioned the word ''misfit'' to my mum before, but I have today and judging by her reaction it was a really stupid thing to call myself. She looked at me up and down and said, ''what? A misfit? What a really stupid thing to say, calling yourself a misfit!'' And I knew she wasn't just trying to reassure me to make me feel better, she was already in a bad temper, and I know my mum - usually when she's in a temper she doesn't care what I call myself.

Is misfit a harsh word to call oneself then? Does it mean more than what I think?

I'm not certain. I thought it merely meant 'someone who does not fit in'. Whether it's a harsh word to call oneself, I think would depend on the perspective of the person. As I said recently on this forum, I once called myself a 'nerd' in front of a girl, and she said 'You shouldn't call yourself that', implying that she felt it could only be an insult, but I then explained to her I had no problem calling myself that.

If you feel comfortable with the term 'misfit' for now -or rather, if you find it an adequate descriptor, as I know you would very much like to fit in with your peers- then use it. Go by what you feel when you hear the word, not by what anyone else thinks, even your mother.

Perhaps "misfit" has a more negative connotation in the UK?

Misfit is not a swear word, but it does have a negative connotation. Anything that is not part of the norm is usually considered in a negative light.

I have always felt that "misfit" accurately describes me, as I have never been part of the norm--never fit in. And no, I don't like being a misfit, but the reality is that I am one in relation to the norm.

I have had over 5 decades to get used to not being part of the norm. I will never like being a misfit, but I have learned to live with the situation. The alternatives are madness or suicide. Neither of those fixes the situation, so learning to live with it was the only viable option. And yes, it is very tough at times.

On the plus side, I am not subject to peer (herd) pressure. I am not always trying to follow the latest fads, and other herd behaviors. I am free of herd mentality. I do understand it, but don't see why so many people are so desperate to conform so tightly to herd patterns, even--especially--when those patterns are bad ones. I have had over 5 decades to observe "normal" human herds and the result is that I am not impressed with "normal" human herd behavior.

I'm a Misfit and I don't have any problem with it.

Life on Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, i feel like i am on the Island of Misfits.