Finding Freedom

Freedom is a deeply personal journey, unique to each of us. It’s shaped by our choices—leading us either toward liberation or our own self-imposed limitations. Comparison, that sneaky thief, often becomes the glass ceiling that stifles our dreams, goals, and aspirations. It whispers lies to our souls, injures our self-esteem, and tempts us to ask that dreaded question: Am I good enough?

But here’s the truth: You are more than enough.

I remember a time when I struggled to feel accepted by someone I considered a mentor. At first, everything was great. I was dubbed as one of hers, someone she saw as part of her circle. But over time, the relationship began to strain. My innate need to speak up—whether it was calling out what felt wrong or sharing information I believed was important—started to rub against the status quo.

I was faced with a choice: stay silent and look away or stand up and advocate for others. I chose the second path, and that decision landed me in the doghouse. I was labeled rebellious, and no matter how hard I tried to get back into her good graces, I failed. For years, I wrestled with the desire to be accepted and the longing to stay true to myself.

Then one day, it hit me: I had to honor my own convictions. If she couldn’t accept that I wouldn’t follow blindly, if she saw my contributions as a threat rather than a strength, then that was her loss—not mine. That realization set me free. Once I embraced my voice and stood firm in my truth, I walked away from the situation knowing that no one—not even a mentor I once admired—had the power to silence me or force me to be anything less than authentic.

Freedom isn’t passive. It doesn’t lull us into complacency or make excuses for us. Freedom is bold. It speaks directly to our core, stirring something deep inside that whispers, You were made for more. It calls us to action, reminding us that we hold the power to live, speak, and think without hindrance or restraint.

But freedom also requires courage. It challenges us to let go of the chains we’ve grown comfortable with—relationships that drain us, mindsets that limit us, or situations that no longer serve our growth. Freedom demands that we protect our peace and lean into the discomfort of change because what lies on the other side is worth every ounce of effort.

Freedom is deliberate. It’s intentional. And oh, it’s so worth it. When we pursue it wholeheartedly, we don’t just catch a glimpse of it—we live it. Freedom is the catalyst for transformation. It causes us to look inward and ask, What’s holding me back? It inspires us to take inventory of our lives and disconnect from anything that doesn’t align with the future we’re building.

Yes, freedom is deliberate. And let me remind you—you deserve it.

Heartwork:

• Take a moment to sit with yourself. Examine your heart and reflect on the areas where you feel bound or restricted. Be honest with yourself—freedom begins with clarity.

• Write down three specific areas where you desire freedom and commit to taking three intentional steps toward liberation.

• Remind yourself daily: Freedom is not only possible, but it’s my birthright.