Have you ever felt like you are alone in your decisions, even when you believe they are right? It’s a common feeling, especially when everyone around you seems to disagree. But what if standing by your decision, despite the lack of support, is the key to your personal happiness and integrity?
The Power of Independent Thinking
A wise person makes their own decisions, while an ignorant person follows public opinion. Public opinion is just what people think others think. A wise soul is someone who knows what is right for them, regardless of what others say. This kind of independent thinking is powerful because it is aligned with one’s true self.
Sometimes, what is right for you might not be what the majority thinks. For example, if everyone around you thinks that getting angry is acceptable, but you feel that it is not right for you, then your decision to stay calm is a wise one, even if no one supports you.
The Downside of Following the Crowd
An ignorant person often makes decisions based on what everyone else thinks. This means they look for approval and follow trends, even if it doesn’t make them happy. Trying to please the world can often lead to losing your own happiness. The majority is not always right. Just because many people do something, like getting angry or drinking alcohol, doesn’t mean it is the right choice for you.
Following the crowd can make you lose sight of what truly makes you happy. You might wear clothes you don’t like, speak in ways that don’t feel right, or even take up habits that are harmful to you, just to fit in. This can lead to feeling lonely and unhappy, even when surrounded by others.
The Importance of Personal Values
Your decisions should be based on your personal values, not on public opinion. For instance, if you value health and happiness, you might choose not to drink alcohol, even if everyone around you does. This decision might make you feel isolated for a while, but it is more important to stay true to yourself.
Standing by your decision can be hard, especially when you feel humiliated or lonely. But it is more humiliating to lose your willpower and happiness just to gain approval. Your personal values are what make you unique and strong.
Building Inner Strength
When you make decisions based on your values, you build inner strength. You learn to stand up for what you believe is right, even if no one else agrees. This kind of strength is crucial for personal growth and happiness. It helps you to not be swayed by others’ opinions and to live a life that is true to yourself.
For example, if you choose to be kind and respectful even when others are not, you are building a strong character. If you decide to prioritize your family over showing off material possessions, you are valuing what truly matters to you.
The Role of Conditioning
Our beliefs and behaviors are often influenced by the society we live in. We might think that respect and value are based on material possessions or the approval of others. But true respect comes from being a good person and staying true to your values.
If someone tries to humiliate you by saying you are not acting like a ‘big person’ by doing simple tasks yourself, like watering your garden, remember that humility is a virtue. It shows your true strength and character.
Reflection and Meditation
Take time to reflect on your beliefs and decisions. Are they truly yours, or are they influenced by public opinion? Meditation can help you clear your mind and find what truly makes you happy. When you meditate, focus on what is right for you and let go of the need for others’ approval.