Learning how to speak for yourself and listening to what you truly want.
Learning What You Want
Previously, I never considered the possibility that individuals could inadvertently attempt to sway my emotions and actions. Many people may not recognize this behavior until it has already taken its toll. It is only at this moment that I can look back on past friendships and analyze who truly held power in those relationships. It is detrimental for any relationship, be it platonic or romantic, to be dominated by one person. Each person is distinct and should have the freedom to think independently.
Learning what you want in a certain relationship is the first step in maintaining healthy boundaries. Whether you have decided on your academic path or personal goals, allow yourself to acknowledge your needs while placing them first. There are individuals who may feel the urge to influence you towards what they believe is best for your life. However, the only person that should be deciding what you need in life is yourself. No one knows you better than yourself.
Occasionally, determining your true desires in life can be challenging. Even now, there are lingering uncertainties. However, isn't this a common experience for everyone?
Although I don't blame anyone for trying to influence my feelings, it's important to acknowledge that others might unknowingly overlook the harm they could cause. However, enforcing one's beliefs on others can hinder their ability to think independently and prioritize their own well-being.
☆ Take a moment to imagine a world where you can see yourself living happily. Below are some ideas I came up with to inspire some thinking. I've also included a little space for you to create your own!
Dream Lifestyle:
A comfortable farmhouse in the deep of a lush forest, watching out as the horses graze from tall thick summer grass.
The nightlife with close friends in the heart of a lively city, enjoying each others company.
Gently being swayed awake from the sea's still surface on a soft landing of a sailboat.
Your Dream Lifestyle:
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Dream Goal(s):
Graduating at the top of your class with your dream job lined up for you.
Creating lifelong connections with friends that will remain in your life forever.
Maintaining the perfect work/life balance in both academic and social life.
Becoming more in tune with yourself physically, mentally, and spiritually.
Your Goal(s) :
_________________________________________________________________.
Standing Up For Yourself
When determining your desires, it is important to stand up for yourself when you feel that others may not have your best interests in mind. I have come to understand that I often allow various people into my life too easily, without taking into account that not all of them may have good intentions.
By being more selective and mindful of the company we keep, we can protect ourselves from potential harm and cultivate relationships that are truly enriching and supportive. Remembering to value our own needs and feelings is a powerful tool in navigating the complexities of human interactions and ensuring that we surround ourselves with individuals who genuinely care for our well-being.
I'm not saying that being a welcoming individual is a bad thing, just that I've learned it doesn't hurt to carry it with a little caution. While it's important to be friendly and approachable, it's also crucial to protect oneself from potential harm or exploitation. By exercising a degree of caution in our interactions with others, we can safeguard our well-being without compromising our kindness and hospitality. This approach allows us to navigate social situations with a healthy level of awareness and discernment, ensuring that we can maintain a welcoming demeanor while also protecting ourselves from any potential risks or negative consequences.
Drowning Out Social Media Insecurities
Social media is major factor that influences an individuals mind and their way of thinking. It doesn't always have to be a person you've met, but instead the social image that is portrayed by social media. I'm one to fall into the trap on a daily basis... opening my Instagram in the morning, being met with perfectly poised and powdered faces of models and media icons. Almost immediately feeling down about my own image, all at 8 in the morning.
I've tried to teach my mind that what I see is quite the opposite of reality; however, this overused phrase just holds no meaning to me anymore. I tend to find that long breaks from social media have benefited me the most. By cutting the problem straight from the source, I use this time that I would be scrolling through posts to flipping through pages of a book. Self-care activities such as putting on a fresh-scented hair mask or applying a pore strip can do wonders to remind myself that I am perfect just the way I am.
Bringing myself back down to earth and away from the fantasy that is social media, I have learned to really appreciate the way God intended to create me. All of us were intricately designed with features different from the rest. He intended for each of us to embrace our differing yet equally valued beauty, whereas social media only promotes a single standard of beauty.
Stay In Touch
Feel free to leave a comment if you would like to share your journey! I would love to hear how you're learning to speak for yourself and discovering your genuine desires :)
I love this