Finding Authenticity: Understanding Your Desires and Breaking Free from Societal Expectations
Hatched by Diego Ospina Serna
Jul 19, 2024
3 min read
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Finding Authenticity: Understanding Your Desires and Breaking Free from Societal Expectations
In Western popular culture, we are often taught from a young age to model and emulate certain behaviors. Family and cultural traditions can dictate what is expected of us throughout life, creating anxiety when we don't meet these benchmarks. We internalize societal events like graduating from college or getting married as desirable, which leads to feelings of pressure to conform to societal norms.
However, it's important to question whether these external measurements truly align with what we want in life. Instead of asking ourselves, "What do you want out of life?" which sets us up for external measurements, we should ask, "What do I enjoy about life?" This shift in perspective allows us to focus on our own personal fulfillment and happiness.
When making important decisions, it's crucial to understand the reasons behind our choices and the fears that influence them. For example, if we are contemplating marriage, we should reflect on what shaped our views of marriage. Did our parents constantly fight, leading to a fear of conflict in our own relationship? Or do we want to get married because everyone else is doing it, and we feel left out? Understanding these motivations and fears can help us make authentic choices.
Living a life filled with societal "shoulds" leaves little room for improvisation and self-discovery. Society often provides limited road maps for the future, making these life events seem nonnegotiable. To find meaning in our lives, we must delve deeper into our motivations. Research has shown that people conform their behaviors to gain acceptance and fit in. However, it's important to remember that our self-worth isn't measured by validation and acceptance from others.
Now, let's shift our focus to the legal realm and explore the concept of professional service contracts. A professional service contract is characterized by the absence of elements typically found in an employment relationship, such as personal service, economic dependence, and legal subordination. In these contracts, individuals are hired to provide specific services without being subject to the usual dynamics of an employer-employee relationship.
However, there are instances where individuals may be hired under the guise of professional service contracts while actually performing duties that qualify as regular employment. In such cases, these individuals may be required to physically attend the employer's premises and monitor its facilities in exchange for a salary. This clearly indicates a traditional employment relationship rather than a professional service arrangement.
It is essential to consider whether the individuals in question provide services for other companies or possess any other evidence that could support the claim of a professional service contract. Without such evidence, it becomes difficult for the court to accept the argument put forth by the plaintiff.
In conclusion, finding authenticity in our desires and breaking free from societal expectations requires introspection and self-awareness. By questioning the external measurements of success and understanding our motivations, we can make choices that align with our true selves. Three actionable pieces of advice to foster this process are:
- 1. Reflect on your values and passions: Take the time to identify what truly brings you joy and fulfillment in life. This will help you make decisions that align with your authentic self.
- 2. Challenge societal norms: Don't be afraid to question societal expectations and norms. Recognize that your worth isn't determined by conforming to external measurements of success.
- 3. Seek support and guidance: Surround yourself with people who support your journey of self-discovery. Seek guidance from mentors or professionals who can help you navigate your path with authenticity.
In the end, living a life that is true to ourselves requires courage and a willingness to break free from societal molds. By understanding our desires, motivations, and fears, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery that leads to a more fulfilling and authentic life.
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