“Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth.” JF Kennedy
You can go out there and follow the roads already walked, or you can blaze your unique paths. Both will challenge you, cause you pain, fill you with fear, doubt and uncertainty but one will bring you greater happiness in pursuit and leave you looking back on your journey with a heightened sense of reward, not regret.
I had comfort in life. I had many great things. I had my moments of joy. I was surrounded by beautiful people and had a great deal to be grateful for in life, but I also lacked freedom and fulfillment. The life I was living was dissatisfying. I didn’t feel like life had any meaning, and I felt it would leave me living a life of regret.
In life, we can conform! We can accept the status quo, accept our life as it is, and find ways to blend. There are comfort and certainty on those paths. In that perhaps we can live an “okay.” A life indicative by ups and downs, pleasure and displeasure.
The alternative is to forget all that. Forget what we think we know and embark on our journey in life. There will still be the challenge. You will likely have your ups and downs, but which paths will bring you more joy in pursuit and greater reward in completion?
Progress, advancement, and innovation hasn’t occurred in the history of life by accepting the status quo. It has happened due to those who challenge it, disrupt it, and break free from it. The same applies to the life we live. Nothing will change in conformity. As JF Kennedy famously said, “Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth.”
Do you want to break free? Do you want to do something different with your life? Then join me in my mentoring program. I will work with you to make it happen. If you are interested and curious to find out more email me at thehiddenwhyguy@gmail.com for more information and we will schedule a time to chat.
Further Reading and Resources
TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading
Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y
Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.
The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.
Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain
Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate
The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.
The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.
Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.
Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.
Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.
Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.”
Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.
The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.
Leave a Reply