“Being yourself in a world that incessantly works to mold you into something else is the ultimate achievement.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
From early on, I sensed I was different, always feeling like I didn’t belong. This sense of otherness has persisted as I’ve aged.
In our loud world, we find confirmation for anything we desire. If we seek proof that we don’t fit in, we will certainly uncover it.
Despite its imperfections, the conventional life plan is still hailed as a route to happiness, which includes:
- Achieving a degree
- Progressing in a career
- Finding a significant other
- Starting a family
- Owning a home and assets
- Retiring in comfort
Let’s Challenge the Fairytale
Many individuals adhere to life’s expectations without questioning if they actually align with their true desires.
Opting for an unconventional route can be intimidating. At thirty-eight, I am single, without children, and living by myself, yet I find happiness.
In solitude, free from outside influences, I experience genuine tranquility. I feel at home.
The Burden of ‘Should’
The term “should” carries significant weight due to the anxiety of letting others down or deviating from the norm.
I quickly discovered that conforming to societal standards led to my dissatisfaction.
Lately, I have been pondering the origins of societal expectations. We each perceive life through our unique perspective. Checklists can feel suffocating if they don’t resonate with our authentic selves.
Conducting a self-assessment of your “shoulds” may reveal how frequently this word constrains you. I found it quite enlightening.
Welcoming Curiosity
Curiosity is a strong force. If more individuals inquired rather than assumed, the world would be more compassionate.
A relative once remarked, “Everyone aims to find a partner, settle down, and raise children,” which never resonated with me.
The notion that everyone must tread the same path in life felt incorrect to me.
Posing uncomfortable questions can help prevent living life as a character in a narrative crafted by others.
- What if I choose not to have children?
- What if I don’t prioritize homeownership?
- What if achieving my aspiration isn’t as fulfilling as anticipated?
Tuning into Our Body’s Wisdom
Mental, physical, and emotional health are interconnected. Our bodies often recognize what is right before our minds do.
Feeling weighed down and worried about a traditional future isn’t merely a figment of imagination. Our bodies continuously guide us.
Learning to listen to our body’s cues serves as a navigational aid.
If a decision