Make It Your Agenda . . . Nobody Else’s

We will always face external opinions on how to live, but our own inner voice should be our guide.

Sixteen months ago, I embarked on a self-discovery journey that is now nearing its end. While I had specific areas I intended to explore, I’ve learned unexpected and profound lessons along the way.

My first-ever journey began after graduating from high school. Growing up in a military family in the 1970s with an alcoholic stepfather, peace was elusive. Speaking out about such abusive situations felt impossible at the time.

Five months after graduation, I moved to Chicago with a friend whose family lived next door to us in Navy housing. This time away provided the necessary distance to begin my search for inner peace.

However, instead of focusing on my own needs, I found myself living in a way that pleased others. I wasn’t being true to the “broken” Cheryl who longed for peace and the freedom to be her authentic self without constant explanation.

As children, we are the recipients of our parents’ aspirations for our success in education and the pursuit of our full potential. This pattern of well-meaning influence can extend into adulthood, where friends might envision ideal partners or careers for us, and even spouses may harbor their own expectations. The people closest to us often have perspectives on how we should navigate life, stemming from affection and a desire for our happiness. 

However, these suggestions can sometimes originate from unmet needs, such as a parent seeking vicarious fulfillment or a loved one wanting us to fit a pre-established role. While their input warrants our consideration and appreciation, ultimately, our own inner compass must guide our decisions.

At times, this influx of advice can become overwhelming, leading to feelings of disapproval and self-doubt. These well-intentioned suggestions may inadvertently hinder our personal choices, causing us to question our judgment. We might even find ourselves adopting others’ desires before fully understanding our own. Energetically, this can manifest as resistance or a tendency to withdraw. 

It becomes essential to shed these external doubts and introspect to gain clarity on our personal aspirations.

Therefore, it is crucial to communicate our gratitude for the thoughts and ideas shared by our loved ones while firmly asserting our need to live authentically and make independent decisions. We can convey that learning from our own experiences is vital for personal growth and refining our judgment. Ultimately, our loved ones can find comfort in OUR happiness and the path WE choose, realizing that their role is to share in our joy as we pursue our goals.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

We Design Space!, 𝓒𝓱𝓮𝓻𝔂𝓵

For more in-depth support beyond this article, explore my personalized coaching programs. Schedule a free consultation to discuss what’s preventing you from achieving organized living spaces. We’ll pinpoint your obstacles and create a customized plan to reach your goals. I look forward to helping you transform your lifestyle.

Let’s Chat! Cheryl Camacho # 860-941-8630

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