Never let others decide this for you

Never let anyone else decide what makes you happy. That's a unilateral decision only YOU can make!

They may assume that just because they think a certain way about something -- either because they were brought up that way or developed firm convictions over time -- you will (or should) feel the same way.

You have the power to be as happy as you decide to be.

Why?

Because happiness is an inside job.

It doesn't come from our jobs, our relationships, our partner, or our hobbies.

While those aspects can certainly enhance our lives, we can have them and still feel miserable. (Example: Filthy rich celebrities who struggle with depression.)

As long as what makes you happy isn't damaging to yourself or those around you, indulge in your hobbies and passions as you please.

If others insist you'll be happier in a different career, in a different relationship, or in a different city, you be the judge of that.

Where do people get off assuming they know you better than you know yourself?

They haven't been in your very shoes. They haven't had all the same experiences. They don't view life through the same lens you do.

Sure, they can make well-meaning suggestions. But insisting you do whatever they think is best for you? We're not in high school anymore; back then, our parents had a right to demand that of us because, well, we were living under their roof.

As an adult, you pay your own bills and have a right to live your life as you see fit.

Want to spend your whole Saturday evening in pajamas binge watching Game of Thrones rather than hitting up nightclubs with the girls?

That's your prerogative.

Want to work only in animal shelters -- even though the pay isn't fabulous -- because you're passionate about helping cats and dogs?

More power to you.

Want to date a nerd, sell your car for a bike, or begin learning Tango?

However unorthodox your decisions may seem, the point is that they're yours. And no one but you should decide the ultimate path you choose to follow.

A life in which you live on others' terms rather than your own is a wasted one indeed.

Arguably, the worst fear one can have is the fear of being themselves because it means others have literally robbed you of your identity and turned you into a clone.

Stand up for yourself. Stand by your core principles. If people can't just let you be happy, let them go.

Protect your individuality, even if it means losing people in the process.

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