Shoulds Are Blinding

Sometimes, you cling to how your life, work or relationships should be.

Shoulds are based on an illusion defined by society. It is an imposed benchmark to easily categorise and control people. Categories keep people compliant and orderly.

You should have a high-paying job. But you actually hate the work, and the people are toxic.

You should marry a man with a high-paying job or a pretty woman with a good education. But they're dull as an endless commute, and you don't love them.

You should work hard to build the next big innovation. But you're burnt out and losing family and friends.

Most people cling to shoulds because it makes a predictably easier life. The same commutes and meals. The same people and conversations. Every day.

Clinging onto shoulds blinds you from acknowledging your realities and recognising your true desires.

Letting go of shoulds requires courage, and it is a life-long process. When you let go, you strip the imposed illusion to reveal a little more of yourself.

To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson