This Independence Day, set yourself free from your fears

Happy 78th Independence Day to my beloved country!!

As we commemorate 77 years of India's independence and enter the 78th year on 15th August, I feel it’s necessary to reflect on the true meaning of freedom—not just as a nation but within ourselves. Despite our country's remarkable progress, many of us still feel trapped by deep-rooted fears and anxieties that have persisted through generations. This edition of my newsletter is dedicated to exploring these fears a little deeper and going back to the history and providing you with the tools to find true freedom in your mind and spirit.

This edition is especially for all of us, who are grappling with burnout, exhaustion, stress, anxiety, depression, performance pressure, and a pervasive sense of unhappiness. If you find yourself constantly comparing your achievements with others, feeling unmotivated, or struggling with self-doubt—often without even realizing it—this newsletter is for you. Our fears often feel immediate and personal, but they are rarely born in the present moment. Instead, they are the echoes of past experiences passed down through generations. The anxieties we face today are often the result of generational trauma—deep-rooted fears that our ancestors faced during times of crisis, such as colonial oppression, partition, and economic hardship. These experiences have embedded themselves in our collective psyche, influencing how we perceive danger and react to challenges. Understanding that these fears are inherited can help us break the cycle and approach our present challenges with a clearer, more empowered perspective.

Understanding the TOP 5 Deep-Rooted Fears in adults in 2024:

1. Fear of Failure:

Many of us fear failure not just because of personal consequences but due to the deep-seated historical experiences of loss and defeat that has been passed on to us unknowingly by our ancestors. The fear of failing can be traced back to the 300 years of British rule and the traumatic experience of partition, which embedded a survival instinct deeply rooted in our psyche and passed on to us by the earlier generations.

2. Fear of Losing Loved Ones:

Generational trauma, particularly the loss and separation experienced during the freedom struggle, partition, plagues, poor medical facilities in earlier times has left many with an ingrained fear of losing those closest to us. This fear often manifests even in our present relationships, leading to overprotectiveness or emotional withdrawal. The experiences of colonization and partition have passed down trauma through generations, leaving a legacy of fear and insecurity.

3. Fear of Losing Job and Money: Economic instability, a legacy of colonial exploitation, has made financial security a primary concern for many. The fear of losing a job or money is often linked to a deeper fear of being unable to survive or provide for loved ones. Our ancestors may have experienced many challenges and tough times to build their homes, family and legacy which we are enjoying today. One constant reminder many of us have heard since childhood while spending money….

“ Money doesn’t grow on trees”!!

4. Fear of People's Opinions: The constant need to prove oneself to others is another fear rooted in our past. The colonial mindset of seeking approval from those in power has translated into a modern-day obsession with societal validation, constantly trying please your seniors at your workplace to be in their good books rising from the fear of criticism and rejection by others. The “Yes Sir” culture is also deeply rooted with the “Herd mentality” of following the crowd from the fear of being alienated. It is very difficult for many to follow their heart and be their authentic selves even after years of freedom and economic progress.

5. Constant Comparison and Lack of Contentment:

The collective trauma of our history has left many of us with a feeling of inadequacy, always comparing ourselves to others and never feeling content with our achievements. This often leads to a perpetual state of dissatisfaction, from a young age, we are conditioned to seek external validation and measure our worth against others, leading to chronic self-doubt and anxiety.

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Top 3 Solutions to Overcome These Fears:

1. Embrace Your Heritage: Understanding and accepting our history is the first step toward healing. Acknowledge the generational trauma, but don't let it define you. Find strength in the resilience of those who came before you. Every generation has its own challenges and progress, lets learn from our history and grow in awareness.
2. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Recognize that your fears are valid, but also remember that you have the power to overcome them. Regularly engage in self-care practices that nurture your mental and emotional well-being.
3. Cultivate Mindfulness: Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help you stay present and reduce anxiety. They allow you to recognize when fear is taking over and give you the tools to manage it effectively and not allow it to grow.

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As we reflect on the meaning of freedom this Independence Day, I encourage you to ask yourself: What does freedom mean to you? Take the time to have a dialogue with your parents and grandparents—learn about their experiences and how they shaped the world you live in today. By understanding their stories, you can begin to heal, empower yourself, and break free from the fears that have held you back.

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Here's to emotional empowerment and true independence for all of us.

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With Love & Joy,

Madhurima

Self-Growth Strategist

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