Let’s get right into it. You don’t have to justify every decision or explain each action you take.
There are certain things in life that are simply no one else’s business but your own. And while there might be societal pressure to explain, you need to remember that personal boundaries matter.
In this article, I’m going to talk about 7 of these things. They’re yours to own, not for others to dissect. You owe no explanations.
Let’s dive in.
1) Your career choices
I once had a job that I absolutely hated. It paid well, but it was stressful, unfulfilling, and took a toll on my mental health. One day, I decided to quit without having another job lined up.
Some considered it reckless; others thought I was “going through a phase”. But I knew it was what I needed to do for myself at the time.
I’ve since moved on to better things and have never looked back or felt the need to justify my decision. Because the truth is it was my decision to make.
You don’t need to justify or explain your career moves to anyone – they’re yours and yours alone.
2) Your dietary choices
Did you know that there are approximately 375 million vegetarians in the world?
That’s more than the entire population of the United States! Yet, vegetarians and vegans often find themselves having to explain their dietary choices.
Whether you’re a meat-eater, vegetarian, vegan, or follow a strict diet for health reasons, it’s your prerogative. Your diet is a personal choice based on your beliefs, health goals or simply your preferences.
You don’t owe anyone an explanation for why you choose to eat or not eat certain foods. As long as your diet is healthy and balanced for you, that’s all that matters.
3) Your relationship status
In this day and age, there’s no one-size-fits-all definition of a perfect relationship. Some people choose marriage, others cohabitation, some prefer to stay single, and others are part of non-traditional relationship constructs.
Your relationship status is a personal matter. Whether you’re single by choice, dating, or have been married for decades, it’s entirely your business.
Your life, your rules. You’re the one living it, after all.
4) Your emotions
We’re all human, and part of being human is experiencing a wide range of emotions. Some days you might feel on top of the world, other days you might be grappling with sadness or anger.
And that’s okay.
You don’t have to justify why you’re not always in high spirits or why certain things make you emotional. We all have our unique sensitivities, triggers, joys, and fears.
It’s okay to feel what you feel. Your emotions are valid and don’t need to be explained or justified to anyone. Be kind to yourself, and allow yourself the space to experience your emotions fully.
5) Your self-care routine
Self-care looks different for everyone. For some, it’s an intense workout at the gym, for others, it’s a quiet night in with a good book.
Me? I love taking long walks in the park.
No matter what your self-care routine includes, it’s something you do to recharge and take care of your mental and physical well-being. You don’t owe need to explain why you do what you do to relax and rejuvenate.
Prioritizing your own needs is not selfish. It’s necessary for maintaining your health and happiness.
6) Your financial status
Money is a sensitive topic for many people. How much you earn, how much you save, and how you choose to spend your money are all personal decisions.
But whether you’re living paycheck to paycheck or have a hefty savings account, that’s your business. It’s your money, and you have the right to manage it as you see fit.
It’s not about how much money you have but how you use what you have to create a life that brings you happiness and fulfillment.
7) Your values and beliefs
At the core of who you are, lie your values and beliefs. They guide your decisions, influence your behavior, and shape your perspective on life.
Whether it’s your political views, religious beliefs, or moral values, they’re personal to you. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for what you believe in or stand for.
Embracing your personal sovereignty
In the end, it all comes down to personal sovereignty – the concept that you have the right to control your own body and life as long as you’re not infringing on the rights of others.
Your decisions, emotions, values, and life choices are yours and yours alone. They are a reflection of who you are – your experiences, your beliefs, and your aspirations.
As long as you’re not causing harm to others or infringing on their rights, you’re free to live your life the way you see fit.
So celebrate your uniqueness. Embrace your personal sovereignty. And remember, it’s your life.
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What would Marcus Aurelius say?
Unsure what to do next in your career? Struggling to move on from a failed relationship? Searching for more meaning in life?
Marcus Aurelius can tell you how to face your challenges in a more Stoic way.
Simply ask your question, and Marcus Aurelius will answer.