Embrace Your Happiness
“Don’t ever be ashamed of loving the strange things that make your weird little heart happy.”
—Elizabeth Gilbert
The journey to self-love is often marked by small but powerful realizations. One of the most significant is understanding that you have the right to pursue what makes you happy—regardless of what others may think.
In a world where societal expectations can dictate how we live, the act of reclaiming your own joy is a revolutionary act of self-care. We often underestimate the impact of giving ourselves permission to explore our interests, hobbies, and passions. Too frequently, we wait for the "right" time or the "perfect" moment to figure out what fuels our soul.
But the truth is, the right moment is now. The more we delay, the more we allow life to pass us by, and the less we live authentically.
Waiting for the Perfect Moment
It’s common to hear advice like, "Wait until the time is right," but what does that actually mean?
More often than not, this advice is rooted in fear—the fear of failure, judgment, or stepping into the unknown. We convince ourselves that waiting will make things easier, but that only holds us back.
In reality, there is no perfect moment! Life is unpredictable, and waiting for the ideal conditions is often just an excuse to avoid the discomfort of stepping out of our comfort zones. The moment we decide to act, to explore, to create, is the moment we begin living fully.
The Beauty of Curiosity and Exploration
Curiosity is a powerful force. It drives us to learn, to grow, and to experience the world in new and exciting ways. When we allow ourselves to be curious—without the constraints of fear or judgment—we open up a world of possibilities.
Discovering what sets your soul on fire is not only about finding what you love but also about embracing the journey of self-discovery. And yes, it can be daunting.
Unfamiliarity often brings with it a sense of anxiety, and the thought of venturing into the unknown can be paralyzing. However, it's important to remember that growth rarely occurs within the confines of comfort.
By pushing through the initial fear and embracing the new, we allow ourselves to expand and thrive in ways we never thought possible.
The Importance of Solitude and Self-Discovery
If you have no one to go with you, go alone.
Alone time is often misunderstood. In a society that places so much value on social interaction, solitude can be seen as uncomfortable or even lonely. But there is tremendous value in spending time with yourself.
When you take the time to explore your interests and passions independently, you learn more about who you are and what truly makes you happy. Some of the most fulfilling experiences can come from doing things on your own terms, without the influence or judgment of others.
It’s in these moments of solitude that you can fully embrace your authentic self.
Embracing Authenticity Without Apology
One of the most liberating aspects of self-love is the realization that you don’t need to apologize for being who you are!
Society often imposes certain standards or expectations that can make us feel like we need to conform to fit in. But the truth is, you are allowed to live your life in a way that makes you happy, even if it doesn’t align with what others expect.
Living authentically means embracing your quirks, passions, and desires without shame or hesitation. It’s about recognizing that your happiness is valid and that you deserve to pursue it wholeheartedly.
The world is full of possibilities, and the only thing holding you back is the belief that you need to wait. So go ahead, take that first step, and start living the life that truly makes you happy.
*I am NOT a professional. I can only speak from my own mental health journey, everyone copes differently. However, I’ve found it most helpful to stay consistent in recognizing my own needs. I’ve written several other posts with some helpful tips for alleviating your struggles.
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