Embracing Self-Reliance: Why I Start Living for Myself

In today's world, it's easy to place our hopes and expectations on external validation. However, as I've come to realize, true fulfillment comes from a path that is uniquely reflective of our own selves. This journey towards living for oneself is not for the faint-hearted, as it requires a deep dive into the realms of self-reliance, personal growth, and self-awareness. This article aims to explore why starting to live for oneself is a compelling and empowering choice.

The Harsh Reality of External Validation

No matter how hard you work on something, someone will always find fault in it.

Every time we pour our hearts and souls into a project or endeavor, we receive critiques that can often feel crushing. The incessant search for perfection often leads us down a rabbit hole of doubt and criticism. Realizing that no amount of perfectionism can completely shield us from negative feedback is a harsh but necessary truth. This understanding liberates us from the constant quest for approval, freeing us to pursue our passions without the shackles of external validation.

The Value of Independence

People actually don't much care about you until and unless they need you.

Relationships can be complex, and often, our worth is tied to our ability to help or meet the needs of others. While this can be comforting in the short term, it can also be draining. We find ourselves always giving and sacrificing, often neglecting our own needs. Embracing independence means valuing our own happiness and well-being over the temporary gratification that comes from pleasing others. Independence fosters a sense of self-worth that is not dependent on external circumstances or validation from others.

The Importance of Self-Understanding and Self-Awareness

Your loved ones are not going to understand your point always.

One of the ironies of life is that the people who know us the best are often the ones who struggle to fully understand our deepest desires and motivations. This reality can be both frustrating and freeing. As we navigate the complexities of our relationships, we must remember that understanding and empathy are two-way streets. Developing a deep sense of self-awareness helps us better understand our own needs, emotions, and motivations. This heightened self-understanding can in turn foster more fulfilling relationships, where honesty and mutual respect take precedence over constant need for approval.

Conclusion: Living for Yourself

You are never going to get 100% support for anything in life.

While it's true that no one can offer unconditional, unalienable support, it's also true that we are the ultimate custodians of our own lives and experiences. We can never entirely rely on anyone else to fulfill our dreams and desires. By living for ourselves, we embrace the reality that our own experiences and emotions are the most valuable currency in life. We start to value the unique journey of self-discovery and personal growth. We learn to find happiness in what we achieve, not in the opinions and validations of others.

Living for ourselves is a choice that requires courage and resilience. It's a journey that involves letting go of the need for external validation and embracing a life filled with self-reliance, growth, and self-awareness. As we embark on this path, we discover a sense of fulfillment that is truly unparalleled. It is in the mirror of self-reflection that we find our own truth, and in embracing this truth, we begin to live more authentically and genuinely.