In today’s world, there are so many paths we can take when deciding on a hobby, career, or lifestyle.

Oftentimes, we are inspired by those around us and aim to take paths similar to theirs. We see how greatly their lives have been impacted by the path they’ve taken and we hope to have a very similar outcome. With that, it can even be expected that we will take a similar path, in hopes of continuing the trend that others have laid out for us. 

Today more so than ever, I’ve witnessed a lot of people take their own paths in life especially around careers, places to live, and life partners. Some of my friends have taken the leap of faith in starting their own businesses, others have moved to new cities, and others have been able to meet someone who is a great match for them, who they probably would have never thought they’d end up with. As I type that out, it creates a buzz of excitement. Why is that you may ask? Because those are the same decisions that although they hold some risk, they will result in reward. I’m sure there are many reasons as to why people pick safe options in these areas of life, but I think a main one is that there is fear around disappointing others and choosing to not live in their shadow. While imposing these expectations is usually done without ill will, it can come with a lot of pressure to live up to the expectations of our parents, friends, bosses, etc. 

Within the last year or so, as I began to do more inner work, I started to reflect on my choices and which ones I was making out of fear and to meet the expectations of others. Was I staying in a job because I thought it would be a safe and secure option? Would I choose a partner because I thought they would be approved by my loved ones? If you’re someone like me who is very close to your friends and family, it can be difficult to tune out the outside voices and start to elevate your own. 

We hope that everyone will have the right answers when we question our choices, when the only true voice we have to listen to is our own. While others may know you very well, only you hold the truth to your deepest dreams and desires. Sure, following a certain life path that has been proven by a parent, sibling, or friend may feel safe at first. However, is it really safe if it doesn’t feel true to who you are and what you want? To me, that would be more of an unsafe option. 

As we begin to draw this year to a close and think about what we want to bring into the new year, I urge you to think about what expectations you may be trying to live up to. Is it in your career? Maybe a relationship? Habits? It is time to move out of the shadows of others and step into the path that feels most true and authentic to you. The one with no expectations. That one that doesn’t worry about disappointment. The one that is out of the shadows.