What Is True Freedom?

What is true freedom?

Is true freedom having a lot of money?

Is true freedom being able to travel anywhere whenever you want?

Is true freedom being able to pursue whatever romantic interests, creative pursuits or individual goals you have?

Is true freedom leaving your job and never having to work another day in your life?

As it turns out, freedom is none of these things. 

Here’s what true freedom is. 

What is true freedom? A quick list 

If you think that freedom can be defined by the examples above, I’d invite you to loosen your grip on those definitions. Now, try thinking of freedom as: having personal control over your emotional state regardless of circumstances. 

Why is this the definition of true freedom? Because when you have control over your emotional state regardless of what’s happening around you, you’re able to live a life of peace, ease and joy—no matter what happens. 

THAT is freedom. Here’s how it shows up in life. True freedom means…

• Remaining calm and composed in the face of adversity, rather than being consumed by fear or anxiety.
  
  
• Choosing to respond with compassion and understanding in difficult situations, instead of reacting impulsively out of anger or frustration.
  
  
• Letting go of always having to be right, and choosing instead to be happy.
  
  
• Cultivating resilience to bounce back from setbacks and failures, viewing them as opportunities for growth rather than sources of despair.
  
  
• Maintaining inner peace and contentment regardless of external circumstances, and finding joy and fulfillment in the present moment.
  
  
• Letting go of past grievances and freeing yourself from the burden of carrying emotional baggage (you don’t have to carry all that weight!).
  
  
• Embracing vulnerability and authenticity, allowing you to express emotions openly and honestly without fear of judgment.
  
  
• Practicing self-love and self-compassion, treating yourself with kindness and understanding even in moments of self-doubt or criticism.
  
  
• Prioritizing your emotional well-being, rather than seeking validation or approval from others.
  
  
• Turning toward a positive point of view and outlook on life by focusing on gratitude and optimism EVEN in challenging times.
  
  
• Harnessing the power of mindfulness and self-awareness to observe thoughts that lead to harmony and peace, rather than clinging to thoughts that no longer serve you. 

The next time you find yourself wishing you had more freedom in your life, remember: true freedom is NOT a new car, a thriving relationship, unlimited funds, a beautiful house, lavish vacations, or a promotion at work. True freedom is what happens when you reorient your thoughts to believe—fully and deeply—that you can have personal control over your emotional state regardless of the circumstances unfolding before you. 

Want more tips to live a freedom-filled life? All you have to do is ask.