We are free. Go do something awesome today. Be someone awesome today. Say something TRUE and LOUD and awesome today. And even if you’re someone who is somewhere that isn’t so free, your spirit is limitless – THINK something awesome today. The entire Universe will hear you.
Today is American Independence Day, which is making me think a lot about what it means to be truly free… and happy.
For me, freedom equals happiness. I was reminded this morning of a lecture I gave to a group of high school students several months ago. I told them that one of the most important indicators of success is freedom.
(If you haven’t heard my lecture on the 7 Steps to Finding Success By Being Yourself, you can find it in the exclusive Bliss Notes Archive. You have to be a Bliss Notes subscriber to gain access, so sign up!)
But what does freedom mean in terms of feeling happy and fulfilled?
Sometimes, when I’m feeling sad or frustrated, I take into account all the wonderful things I have – a healthy family, a beautiful home, lots of land for my animals, a thriving career, an amazing online community, supportive and talented friends.
With all those things, how could I ever feel less than ecstatic about life?
There are also a few more things I hold close to my heart from time to time – doubt in my purpose and abilities, fear of judgement from others, anxiety about the future, guilt about things I’ve done in the past, shame about elements of my life I haven’t felt ready to reveal.
And that makes me think. Happiness isn’t about all the things I have or have accomplished. I would be happy with a smaller house, with just one or two great friends, or with a job that simply feeds my family. Happiness is about all the things I’m able to let go.
No matter how amazing what I have is, if I also hold onto fear, doubt, shame, judgement, I’ll never feel truly happy or truly free.
I understand that none of us can think, behave, speak, and feel in perfect harmony with love all the time, but we can move toward love in all moments. We can choose love when making every decision.
When we recognize what’s holding us back, we can also take action to let go. Because, what’s also true, is that we’re holding on, too.
Sometimes we take comfort in the things that make us feel not-so-great. What are you holding close that you’re ready to just let go? Tell me how you’re claiming your independence in the comments below!
Stay blissed in! xx
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