When we are young, we are placed in a container by the judgments, labels, and expectations of others.
As we grow up, our world asks us to define ourselves and commit to that definition before we really know ourselves. With such an impossible demand, it’s easy to unconsciously default to the judgments, labels, and expectations we were given when we were young. We can attach ourselves to dreams, goals, careers, and people based on the opinions of others.
When you design your life, you approach the edges of the container and realize you have a choice – to be contained or to be free.
When the judgments, labels, and expectations of others lose their almighty power, the truth becomes obvious.
You don’t have to agree with the judgments.
You don’t have to acquiesce to the labels.
You don’t have to live up to the expectations.
When you open up to the truth – you are free to live a life you love — you may feel terrified and exhilarated at the same time.
There may be responsibilities in your life you feel you must adhere to. If you feel terrible and trapped as a result of those responsibilities I encourage you to examine them. Deeply. Honestly. Bravely.
You get to choose.
Who you are.
How you live.
Whether you go.
Whether you stay.
What you say no to.
What you say yes to.
You can refine your life according to who you are now rather than be defined by who you were then.
If there are parts of your life you’ve outgrown, you can leave them behind.
I’m not saying it will be an easy. It probably won’t be.
I’m not saying you’ll be comfortable with having to make the call. You might not be.
You design your life every time you make a choice. Look around at your life …
Is this the life you you want to be living?
Are there parts of your life you have outgrown?
What changes need to be made so you can live a live you love?
In every moment you get to decide who you are and declare how you will live.
Start now.
Photo credit : Catherine Just captured this one.