This week is a holiday week here in the USA. The 4th of July is all about freedom and independence. Every time this time of year comes around I’m extremely thankful. I also ask again myself the question: What does it really take to be free?
Whenever you think you don't have a choice, that thought enslaves you. Real freedom is the freedom to choose. And it has more to do with your intangible mental state than with the tangible “reality” around you.
You may live in a free country, yet, not really be free
I grew up in a communist country where I didn't have hardly any of the freedoms I enjoy in the USA. Yet, my parents gave me a great gift. The gift to understand that even if I could not change external circumstances, I always had the freedom to choose my attitudes and thoughts.
Since then, in my practice as consultant and executive coach, I constantly encounter people who live in a free country, yet are not really free, because of the way they think. I constantly hear things like:
"I feel trapped."
"I can't do anything about this."
"When ________ does ________ I can't help but be __________ (angry, discouraged, depressed, etc.).
Regardless of where you live or work, you ALWAYS have the freedom to choose your frame of mind.
You enjoy real freedom. . .
- when you are able to accept or reject thoughts in accordance with your will.
- when instead of buying into what other’s define as “right” you follow your inner moral compass
- when you have the courage to act on your convictions, regardless of the consequences.
- when you decide on your individual definition of what freedom means for you, and what your next step is to get there.
- when you can face the truth about yourself: your limiting beliefs, your fears, your excuses, but also your talents, your strengths, and your dreams.
- when you find ways to let go of what holds you back. Hint: you have to start with letting go of the thoughts that hold you back.
- when you can create instead of react, taking full advantage of your free will.
- when you recognize that freedom is not feeling, but engaging with taking action toward your goals.
Remember. . .
You don’t have to feel trapped, or think you have no options. There are always options if you exercise your freedom of thought and choice.
Are you successfully using your freedom of thought and choice? Do you know how to create opportunities for free thinking within your workforce? If not, Contact me today for a free, no obligation interview to decide how can I help you take advantage of the freedom you have.
Photo taken by Dr. Ada at Red Canyon, Dixie National Forest, Utah.