The 9 Pillars of Freedom
Freedom.
Not the easiest topic to tackle, but still of significant importance for anyone willing to master its wellness.
In all its forms, we can all agree that freedom plays an indispensable role in our sense of well-being and fulfillment. A universal birth given right, that everyone deserves to experience in their lives.
To make it simpler, let’s explore this together through some reflective and experience-based insights captured under 9 pillars that highlight its significance in today’s context.
1. Authenticity as a Cornerstone: True freedom begins with the permission we give ourselves to be authentic. It's about expressing our true selves, our opinions, and preferences without undue restraint. Just like enjoying a candid conversation with a close friend, or dressing like your favorite super-hero, being authentic enriches our sense of well-being.
2. The Power of Choice in our Professional Lives: The liberty to choose our career paths is a fundamental aspect of freedom. Consider the story of a close friend who transitioned some years ago from a lucrative position in a private firm to follow her passion for teaching English. This move, driven by a true desire for personal fulfillment over financial gain, underscores the profound impact of aligning one's profession with personal values. (And she will hopefully recognize herself here :))
3. Freedom of Expression: The ability to articulate our thoughts and beliefs openly is a critical facet of freedom. It supports not only our personal growth but also fosters a culture of respect and understanding in the broader society.
4. Pursuing What Truly Matters: Reflecting on the personal story of another friend who also made the bold decision to leave a successful career in the energy sector to embrace a simpler, more intentional life deep in the Idaho mountains (USA), his story, which has been a true personal inspiration, exemplifies the courage to pursue what genuinely brings joy and meaning to our lives, beyond societal expectations. One simple question one should always start asking is: "Am I happy now? And if not, what can I do to change it?" Sometimes, the simplest it seems, the hardest it actually is—you certainly have heard of the saying "Easier said than done," right? But far down the road, nothing will ever replace the inner fulfillment of having made such a decision in your life.
5. Mutual Respect for Individual Liberties: A key principle of freedom is the recognition and respect for the autonomy of others. This mutual respect forms the foundation of a harmonious and pluralistic society.
6 Adaptability to Change: Embracing freedom involves being adaptable to life’s changes and uncertainties. It's about navigating life's ebbs and flows with resilience, viewing each challenge as an opportunity for growth. As a windy road leading up to a incomparable feeling of satisfaction.
7. The Importance of Community: Finding a community that resonates with our values and aspirations can significantly enhance our sense of freedom. It provides a supportive space where we can thrive as individuals while being part of a collective.
8. Continuous Learning and Evolution: Freedom also entails a commitment to lifelong learning and personal development. Each choice we make is an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and the world around us, fostering a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. And to reflect on the relevance of learning continuously, this quote from A. Einstein is certainly worth reflecting on: ‘‘Once you stop learning, you start dying’’.
9. Creating a Safe Space for Individuality: Ultimately, freedom is about creating environments—both internally and externally—where individuals feel safe to express their true selves. It’s about nurturing spaces where authenticity is celebrated, and diversity is embraced.
In essence, freedom is for us a multi-dimensional concept that profoundly influences our well-being. It is about living authentically, making choices that resonate with our inner selves, and respecting the diverse expressions of freedom around us. Whether it involves making significant career changes or adopting a lifestyle that truly reflects one’s values, these acts of freedom are pivotal to our overall happiness and wellness. It’s a nuanced journey, filled with personal discoveries and societal contributions, reminding us of the profound impact of living freely and consciously to build a better world around us.
