I’ve been asking myself what images I’ve accepted that are attached to my roles. What “should,” in my mind, a mom be like? A psychologist? A Christian? What are the behaviors, the interests, and even the attire that seem congruent with these roles?
Often the images and self-expectations we create are our own worst enemies. We can expect ourselves to take on the world, to be everything to everyone, and at the same time keep ourselves in a tightly constructed box of “shoulds” based on comparisons with others, cultural pressures, and our own traditions and belief systems.
Challenge the norm and celebrate your individuality. Check in with yourself internally and be a keen observer not only of what is expected externally but what you desire and truly believe. Pause before agreeing to new commitments. Ask yourself if a behavior or decision is congruent with your values or just commonly accepted. You may discover a whole new way of living that is exactly right for you.
Who knows what you will learn about yourself.