The Freedom Within
In endless circles, approval sought,
By others' standards, always caught.
But seek not their nods, their fleeting cheer,
For freedom lies in being clear.
True to yourself, let your spirit soar,
Approval chases will be no more.
In your own light, forever be,
That's where you'll find true liberty.
Break the chains, the need to please,
Live your life with gentle ease.
No need to bend, no need to sway,
Your worth is not what others say.
In your heart, a flame burns bright,
Guiding you through the darkest night.
Trust in yourself, in your own way,
For your truth, don't fear to say.
The world may judge, the world may scorn,
But in your soul, a strength is born.
In the mirror, see the one who’s true,
The only approval you need is you.
Hello, courageous readers!
In a world that constantly measures us by external standards, the quest for approval can often feel like an endless journey. We seek validation from others, hoping that their acceptance will somehow define our worth. But as the poem above reminds us, true freedom and happiness lie not in the fleeting approval of others but in the unwavering acceptance of ourselves.
The Endless Chase for Approval
From a young age, many of us are conditioned to seek approval from those around us—family, friends, colleagues, society at large. We adjust our behaviors, our goals, even our dreams, to fit into the mold that others expect of us. This chase can be exhausting, and no matter how much approval we gather, it often feels like it’s never enough.
But why do we chase approval? It’s human nature to want to be liked, to belong, and to be seen as worthy. However, when this need for approval begins to overshadow our true selves, it becomes a barrier to our freedom and happiness.
The Power of Self-Acceptance
Imagine a life where your worth isn’t measured by the opinions of others, where you live authentically, guided by your values and desires. This is the essence of self-acceptance, the key to true freedom. When you accept yourself as you are, with all your flaws and strengths, you no longer feel the need to conform to others’ expectations.
Self-acceptance is about embracing your uniqueness, your quirks, and your individuality. It’s about recognizing that you are enough just as you are. This doesn’t mean you stop growing or striving to be better—it means you grow on your own terms, driven by your inner compass rather than external validation.
Steps to Embrace Your True Self
1. Reflect on Your Values: Take some time to identify what truly matters to you. What are your core values? What do you stand for? When you live in alignment with your values, you begin to find fulfillment within, rather than seeking it from others.
2. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to things that don’t serve you or align with your values. Setting boundaries is an act of self-respect and a declaration of your worth.
3. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Accept that you are a work in progress, and that’s okay. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend.
4. Celebrate Your Uniqueness: What makes you different is what makes you special. Embrace your quirks, your talents, and your passions. They are what make you, you.
5. Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Seek out relationships that uplift and support you. True friends and loved ones will appreciate you for who you are, not for who they want you to be.
The Journey to True Liberty
The path to self-acceptance is not always easy, but it is profoundly liberating. When you stop seeking approval from others and start seeking approval from yourself, you free yourself from the chains of others' expectations. You begin to live authentically, guided by your own light, and that’s where true liberty lies.
Remember, the only approval you truly need is your own. Embrace your true self, and let your spirit soar. The freedom you seek is already within you.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of self-discovery and empowerment. At Eudaimonia Nexus, we believe that the key to a fulfilling life lies in embracing who you are and living authentically. Let’s continue to support each other in this journey towards true freedom.
With love and light,
Shikha
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