Balancing societal and family expectations with personal truth can be challenging, especially for those who feel unseen or unheard. Staying true to oneself is crucial for living a fulfilling life. 

When you’re raised with the belief that you “owe your life” to your parents, fulfilling their dreams can feel heavy. This is common among first-generation children of immigrants or those whose parents often reminded them of their sacrifices, making it feel like a burden to eventually succeed and support them. 

These expectations are often inherited from previous generations, but they don’t define you. Living to please others means living someone else’s dreams, which can leave you feeling lost and aimless. If this resonates with you, I feel you! 

Growing up, I was the daughter who spoke up, challenging the status quo. I didn’t realize I was being true to myself until I studied abroad and saw shifts in my relationships and self-perception. Despite societal expectations to follow a traditional path – get good grades, secure a good job, buy a house – I initially chased someone else’s dream, trying to work in companies for roles that looked good on paper. I was striving for a sense of achievement that wasn’t truly mine. Eventually the exhaustion from trying to keep up, led to a melt down and empowered me to continue pursuing a path that felt right and good to me, living in different countries and developing new interests. 

Becoming a single mom was another challenge. I had to balance my independence with the needs of my child. It was a shock to my system, but I was determined not to repeat my parents’ patterns. I wanted to write a new story, one where I would be fulfilled and show my daughter that life is what we make of it – it can be bliss versus a never ending struggle. 

Societal and family pressures can lead to self-doubt, like not feeling enough or worthy, impacting personal identity and mental well-being. These expectations are often self-imposed, based on inherited beliefs. It’s important to become aware of these beliefs and change them to align with your true self. Staying untrue to yourself usually takes a negative toll on your thoughts, emotions, and actions, resulting in the opposite of what you desire. It’s essential to recognize and change disempowering narratives. 

Here’s how you can practice staying true to yourself amid outside expectations: 

1. Remember Your Joy 

Focus on creating your desired life experience. You’re in control of your thoughts and can create more of what you desire. You’re responsible for adding to your own happiness – not anyone outside of you. 

2. Self-Reflection 

Use a daily journal to write your goals as if they’re already achieved. Make your desired success feel familiar. Regularly check in on your core values and progress. 

3. Authenticity

Engage in activities that light you up daily, weekly, and monthly. This practice helps maintain motivation and inspiration. 

4. Notice Your Energy

Pay attention to how you feel around people and activities. Positive associations will prompt you to take aligned action and guide you toward fulfillment. Anything that feels off or contractive, walk away, let it go, don’t wait. 

5. Set Boundaries

 Say no to negativity. Communicate your goals to friends and family, and don’t let their interpretations affect you. Even if they disagree, it’s not personal; it’s how they’re internalizing and processing it. You can do this! 

6. Mind Your Language

Focus on empowering language and solutions. Change the narrative of your life – choose to practice gratitude and appreciation, for yourself and others. 

7. Listen to Your Intuition

Trust your instincts – that voice inside of you that’s open to spontaneity and learning. Pay attention to those moments where you think and feel, “I just know.” 

8. Conscious Decision

Making Ensure your responses align with your true intentions, not influenced by others’ emotions or reactions. 

9. Build a Supportive Community

Surround yourself with people who share your interests and goals. A supportive community can be transformative. 

10. Discipline + Trust = Breakthrough

This is my theme for the year!❤️‍🔥 Decide to commit to your health and happiness every day. Consistent practice leads to breakthroughs. 

Staying true to yourself amid expectations requires self-awareness, boundary-setting, and a commitment to your joy and authenticity.

It’s not always easy, and you will experience resistance, yet that weight lifts when you know who you are and what you want in life. Remember, while some may need to see your journey to believe in it, those who are truly meant for you will support and stay by your side as you embrace your authentic self. By sharing relatable experiences and practical strategies, I hope to inspire you to live a life aligned with your true self. Remember, your journey is unique, and you have the power to create the life you desire. 

✨If this resonates with you, learn more about my 90-Day One-to-One Program. It’s designed to help you gain clarity, stay accountable, and thrive despite any less-than-ideal circumstances. Start your transformation today!