From my understanding, Transcendentalism is a way of life, a way of thinking. A true transcendentalist will focus on themself and on their own mental well being and thoughts. While they will be aware of their surroundings and of God, they will not let outside activities or entities influence them more than they influence themself. When the time comes to voice their opinion they will do so but in a non-violent non-disruptive way.
In transcendentalism I agree that people should get to know themselves and that people should do what they believe is good and right. I like that it is so focussed on doing what the individual wants and not so much what the group wants. It is like nonconforming but still fitting in.
I don't like how strongly transcendentalists spoke of their beliefs. It was as if they preached to people to be more open minded and to stick with their gut but if they didn't, they were a bad person. Transcendentalism just seemed a little forced to me I guess.
I would say I am somewhat of a transcendentalist. I carry my own beliefs and if asked will share them, but I still put faith in God and the government. I would say I conform more to society than a true transcendentalist would, but not so much so that I just get looked past because I totally blend in.
